Sasaki discovers his yen for Super League after watching Malaysia’s heroics in Asian Cup

PETALING JAYA: Negri Sembilan’s new import Takumi Sasaki (pic) hopes to endear himself to the Deer fans with some eye-catching displays in midfield when the new Super League season kicks off.

Playing in Malaysia will be the 25-year-old Japanese playmaker’s first stint abroad, and he intends to leave some lasting memories here.

Sasaki said he chose to play his trade here after watching Malaysia’s inspiring display in the Asian Cup in Qatar in January where the Harimau Malaya set tongues wagging by holding giants South Korea 3-3 in their last group match.

“Malaysia’s determined and impressive display in the Asian Cup caught my attention. They are growing into a team to be reckoned with, and I like to be a part of that development,” said Sasaki.

“This is also a new challenge for me. I’ve played for the Japanese Under-20 team and several teams in the J-League but I’ve always wanted to play abroad and see how I fare in a foreign land.”

Sasaki added that he was also persuaded by the vision of Negri’s new chief executive officer Faliq Firdaus.

The team are going through a revitalisation process as they sought the perfect mix of young and seasoned players.

“I feel like I fit the bill of the sort of player they’re looking for to help in that process. Faliq has many good ideas to bring the team forward, and I’m motivated to play a big role in it,” added Sasaki.

Calling himself a natural No. 10, Sasaki believes he has the skills and creativity to own the playmaking role in the team.

“My goal will be to help the team win matches, as that is what my skills and creative play are for. It’ll be great to entertain the fans, but we must also make winning our priority.”