Sufian ever ready to answer Lions call
LIONSXII striker Sufian Anuar is fully prepared to answer the nation's call if he is picked to represent Singapore at the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup.
By Gabriel Tan
It has been a season to remember so far for the 25-year-old, who has caught the eye with his tenacious displays for the LIONSXII, helping them to an impressive runners-up finish in the Super League in their first year in Malaysian football.
Despite being expected by many to play a fringe role for the Singaporean outfit, he quickly forced his way into coach V. Sundramoorthy's first-team plans - and won over the fans - with his work ethic and eye for goal, scoring six goals in 16 games in all competition.
Given how plenty has been made about the lack of quality strikers at Singapore coach Radojko Avramovic's disposal at the moment, some have expressed surprise that Sufian has earned just one cap for the Lions - against Korea DPR back in 2010.
However, the ex-Home United man refuses to be disheartened by the lack of opportunities afforded to him at international level, and has vowed to continue proving his worth in a bid to win selection for the Suzuki Cup.
"Playing for the national team remains my number one priority," he told ESPNSTAR.com in an exclusive interview.
"It is a real dream of mine to play in a big tournament like the Suzuki Cup. If I'm not picked, I will respect the coach's decision.
"But if I can play in November, I would love the experience."
Sufian is grateful for the added exposure playing for the LIONSXII has provided him with, and is hoping the public interest generated in the side can help others take notice of his spirited displays.
"Playing for the LIONSXII has indeed given us more exposure," he added.
"When I was playing in the [Great Eastern-YEO's] S.League, it used to just be the hardcore fans that came down for the games.
"But with the interest playing in the Malaysia Super League has generated, more fans watch us now and I guess in a way, it helps make people more aware of us."
Sufian is yet to play a game in the Malaysia Cup after being sidelined by injury, and in his absence, the LIONSXII have struggled to find the back of the net - scoring just five goals in seven games.