Safuwan returns to Singapore to play in two friendlies
Safuwan Baharudin is still "surprised" by the two goals he scored for Melbourne City in the A-League.
Since his debut against derby rivals Melbourne Victory on Feb 7, Safuwan has made the starting XI of his new club five times, yielding two goals.
The first came when City defeated Adelaide United 3-1 on Feb 27 before their March 11 tie against Western Sydney Wanderers. City eventually lost 2-3 to Western Sydney.
Safuwan is now back in Singapore to play in two friendlies with the Lions.
Amazing opportunities
"I was surprised (with the two goals) because before I joined, I thought it would be hard to score in the A-League," the 23-year-old told Berita Harian, in a report published today (March 19).
"Even more so because I'm a defender. My opportunities usually come through set-pieces ... with players who are well-built, and who play well in the air, you have to be fast in converting opportunities, and that's what I try to do.
"The opportunities so far have been amazing, but my focus is to keep making the top 11 more often.
"At the same time, there's a lot for me to learn during training sessions and from my teammates here."
He'll be part of the national squad facing Thailand in Korat on March 26 and Guam at Jalan Besar Stadium on March 31.
Extended deal?
His national team duties means he will miss two A-League matches - an away game with Sydney FC on Friday and a home game with Brisbane Roar next Saturday (March 28).
Safuwan will only return to City for their game with Western Sydney Wanderers on April 3 - one of the last four matches before the A-League 'finals', which will also mark the end of his three-month loan to the Australian club.
That is, of course, unless he gets an offer to extend his contract there.
Safuwan, however, does not want to think too much about his future in Australia.
He said: "God willing, I hope I get to stay longer in Australia but I prefer to go day by day as my future (with Melbourne City) is still uncertain."
Source: Berita Harian
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