Boro trials for Syed Adney

By ERIC SAMUEL

PETALING JAYA: National rookie goalkeeper Syed Adney Syed Hussein (pic) is game for the big time.



The lanky Selangor custodian, who will turn 21 in November, has set his sights on playing in the English Premier League. He will get his first big break when he attends trials with Middlesbrough next month.

"I was not selected for the recent Asian Cup campaign because I was recovering from injury. But I am ready for the challenge in the EPL," said Syed Adney yesterday.

He said that an agent from the United States had arranged for the trials.

Datuk Seri Dr Ibrahim Saad, the FA of Malaysia (FAM) general secretary, said it was refreshing to see a youngster from Malaysia getting a shot in the EPL.

"It will go down in the history books if he gets to play in the EPL," said Dr Ibrahim, adding the FAM will sponsor the player's trip to England.

Besides Middlesbrough, Syed Adney will also be attending trials with Second Division outfit Darlington FC.

"I am so happy to get the trials. And I am confident of getting a stint in England. If I get it I am going to stay there," said Syed Adney, who played for the national team in the Doha Asian Games last year.

"I was born in Liverpool and my dream is to play for the Reds," added the six-foot-two goalkeeper who returned to Malaysia with his parents at the age of eight.