KELANA JAYA: Romel Morales, who came from the Western Hemisphere to seek his fortunes in Malaysia, joined national training for the first time yesterday, and admitted he was nervous.
The Colombian-born Morales, who is Harimau Malaya's latest naturalised player, spoke to the media before joining national training in Kelana Jaya.
Morales said he was able to settle down smoothly after he "felt welcome" by the Malaysia team.
The 26-year-old striker is the eighth naturalised player in the Malaysia team, and his presence is set to boost their attack in the Asian Cup from Jan 12- Feb 10 in Doha, Qatar.
The other naturalised players in Harimau Malaya are Endrick Dos Santos, Paulo Josue, Guilherme De Paula, Lee Tuck, Sergio Aguero, Mohamadou Sumareh and Liridon Krasniqi.
Morales, who has been living in Malaysia for the past six years, said he never expected to don the Malaysia jersey, and was grateful for the opportunity.
"I'm excited for the opportunity, it's a new challenge in my career. Six years ago I came to Malaysia with big dreams but I never expected something like this," said Morales.
"This is something great for me. I'm happy to be in this situation.
It's special and I feel I am now part of this county. I have experienced so many things here in the last six years.
"When I got the opportunity (to represent Malaysia), I didn't think much.
"I was a bit nervous about everything (earlier). However everyone treated me so well and I can see the unity. It's like a big family."
Morales first arrived in Malaysia in 2018 to join PKNS as a 21-year-old. He went on to feature for Melaka United in 2020 before becoming a hit with KL City, helping them to win the 2021 Malaysia Cup and finish runners-up in the 2022 AFC Cup and 2023 FA Cup.
In his five seasons in the M-League with three clubs, Morales scored 46 goals in 148 appearances.
Morales said he is aware of the high expectations on him. "I'm here to give something extra. I know my situation and my position.
"I want to give the best that I possibly can. I know my qualities. From the training itself, I need to push myself."