JDT’s Arif opens up on anxiety before fairy-tale Malaysia Cup return

KUALA LUMPUR: Winger Arif Aiman Hanapi described his return to competitive football as a deeply fulfilling milestone after a tough six-month battle with a hamstring injury.

The 24-year-old came on as a substitute to score the second goal in Johor Darul Ta’zim’s (JDT) 2-0 victory over Kuching City in Saturday’s Malaysia Cup final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

“It is definitely a fulfilling return after six months out of the game,” said Arif, who was picked as the man of the match.

“I struggled a lot during my recovery, but I must thank JDT for helping me return to action.

“In the first three weeks after surgery, I felt uneasy and at times, felt it would be tough to make a comeback.

“However, everyone in the team supported and motivated me.”

Arif said he plans to cut his upcoming break short and report back early to prepare for next season.

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JDT coach Xisco Munoz said he was delighted by the winger’s explosive impact.

“Imagine if we had him all season,” said Munoz.

“After being six months out, he produced an amazing performance today. He is our best player, and I look forward to seeing him more next season.”

Munoz said it was a difficult final against a defensively organised Kuching side, but praised his team’s historic campaign.

“I think winning 2-0 is good enough,” said Munoz.

“More importantly, we have made history by retaining all four domestic titles for a fourth consecutive time.

“Overall, we had a great season… we reached the Asian Champions League quarter-finals for the first time. However, we were a little bit unlucky in the Asean Club Championship. We will return with more power next season.”

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المصدر: New Straits Times