Can the return of Muamer Salibasic change Sarawak’s fortune?
January 28, 2019Muamer Salibasic is no stranger to Malaysian football especially among the Sarawak football fans.
The Bosnian had on numerous times tried to return to Sarawak FA following the termination of his contract back in 2015. He likely took the first flight to Kuching when the management came calling this season with promise that there is a place for him in Sarawak FA.
Salibasic’s ability to dribble and score had made him a fan favourite when he was the team’s top scorer in 2013. His good rapport with fans also made him a clear fan choice to lead Sarawak out of the poor run in the Liga Malaysia.
During an interview with FoxSports, Salibasic admitted he is happy to be back and had vowed to do his best and help Sarawak do well in the Liga Malaysia.
The 35-year-old striker admitted that this season would be interesting since Sarawak is now filled with young inexperience players. However, he said that he would guide these young players with the help of senior players like Bobby Gonzales.
The interview showed that Salibasic is very optimistic about his affect on the team, and he is very hopeful of a good season.
However, on social media sites related to Sarawak football, some fans are questioning the signing of Salibasic.
His age had come into question, as some fans felt that 35 is ‘too old’ for a striker.
Some fans had also raised concerns about his tendency to get injured, citing he didn’t perform as expected with Sabah FA when he represented the team back in 2016.
Despite these comments, trust that Salibasic can help change the fortunes of Sarawak is evident with fans more than happy about his return.
Sarawak based football fan pages were abuzz when news broke out that Salibasic would don the colours of the Crocs, and belief that Sarawak would endure a successful season roared further when Salibasic made stamped his mark by scoring one goal and assisting another during the pre-season friendly against Selangor United.
However, questions continue to linger if Salibasic can keep his momentum when the Liga Premier kicks off this coming 2 February. It is up to Salibasic himself to prove if he is still the Muamer Salibasic the Sarawak fans know back in 2013.
Photo credit: Official Sarawak FA
This article is brought to us by our new member of Sports Writers Club – Cyril Dason.
