NATIONAL Under-23 coach K. Rajagobal, who knows all about good strikers, believes Kedah-born Ahmad Shakir Md Ali has the makings of one.
"Shakir has everything a perfect striker needs," said Rajagobal. "He's fast, he's technically gifted and he's excellent on the ball. Shakir is a young lad and if he concentrates on his football, he will go far."
So impressed was Rajagobal with the 19-year-old Shakir that the coach included him in the National Under-23 squad in April.
Though Shakir, who scored 17 goals for Premier League side Young Tigers this season, has yet to start in an international match (featuring only as a substitute in recent friendlies), the young striker has impressed many with his strong presence on the field when given the opportunity.
Shakir was a substitute when the National Under-23 team took on Indonesia, Manchester United and Kenya in recent friendly matches and he provided the extra bite up front, though he did not score.
But Shakir's wait for his first international goal ended on Monday when he scored in Malaysia's 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in Riyadh.
"Shakir is a fearless striker. Despite his age, he is not afraid to take on experience defenders. I remember him giving Manchester United defenders a tough time in July," said Rajagobal.
"He is a very exciting player to watch. I believe, in time, he will be a great player." Shakir, if he continues with his performance, will likely feature in the Sea Games in Laos.
The other strikers in the training squad are Zaquan Adha Radzak, Norsharul Izlan Talaha, Farderin Kadir and Ahmad Fakri Shaarani.
Meanwhile, Rajagobal believes his Under-23 squad will reach their full potential as a unit in three years.
"They are improving with every match but it will take another three years before they make it big.
"My players are young and they need the exposure and experience. Of course the immediate target for them will be the Laos Sea Games," he said.
Rajagobal added that he will only set a target for the Sea Games after the draw is released in mid-October. -- AJITPAL SINGH
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