KUCHING: Former Malaysian goalkeeper Syed Adney Syed Hussein and football host Roshan Narayan have weighed in on the appointment of Australian Peter Cklamovski as the new head coach of the Malaysian national football team.
In an exclusive interview with Sarawak Tribune recently, they shared their insights on Harimau Malaya’s football development.
Syed Adney, who has an extensive experience in the local football scene, admitted that, initially, he didn’t know much about Cklamovski.
However, after reviewing his background, Syed Adney expressed optimism about the new appointment. “Before this, to be honest, we did not know much about him. But after reading on his background — his time working with current Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou and his experience starting out as a fitness coach and progressing into a managerial role in the J-League — he definitely has the knowledge.
“So, hopefully, this will be a breath of fresh air. It’s exactly what we needed at the moment,”Syed Adney shared.
Syed Adney also acknowledged the debates surrounding foreign versus local coaches, acknowledging that while Malaysia had a pool of talented local coaches, the decision to hire an international manager had its merit. “Some people are going to say, we want local coaches. Of course, we’ve got talented local coaches, but they decided otherwise. So, we have to support it all the way.”
Drawing parallels with some of the world’s most renowned managers, Roshan pointed out that even the most famous coaches had humble beginnings.
“Two of the greatest managers were nobodies at one point. Arsène Wenger made a name for himself in Japan, and José Mourinho, who was once again a nobody, made his name.
“So for me, at the end, whoever does come over — whether international or local — it’s about being here to build, to help grow,” Roshan added.
He was also candid about the financial side of coaching, noting that no one worked for free.
“Nobody does it for free. Just being very honest. A salary is a part of the process. Whatever the discussions are between him and the governing bodies, that’s between them.
“But as long as you’re here to help grow the market, make the game bigger, and nurture the talent pool, I think it’s perfectly fine,” Roshan said.
Additionally, Syed Adney sees Cklamovski’s arrival as an opportunity for current players in the local league. “I think it provides an opportunity for current players in the league who may not have been seen by the coaches in the past. They’ve got something else to prove.
“Coaches are scouting everywhere, so it’s an opportunity for many players out there,” Syed Adney said.
Roshan also shared his thoughts on the appointment, agreeing with Syed Adney’s perspective that Cklamovski’s appointment could bring fresh energy to the national team and provide a platform for local players to showcase their skills on the international stage.
With the new coach at the helm, both experts hope to see a more dynamic and competitive Malaysia in the global football stage.
