LEFT-BACK Zubir Azmi and striker Norshahrul Idlan Talaha have emerged as the most consistent players in Dollah Salleh’s side having played in all matches in the AFF Cup.
Zubir has dislodged Azmi Muslim and Asraruddin Putra Omar as the best left-back in the country while Norshahrul can count himself lucky to feature in all matches as the striker was initially not in Dollah’s plans for the semi-final, return leg against Vietnam in Hanoi.
Zubir, who made his international debut in the 5-0 defeat to Australia in 2011 has been capped 18 times.
“I am looking forward to play in the final. I had difficult moments throughout the competition as I made mistakes that led to goals. However, I am not thinking about my past blunders,” said Zubir yesterday.
“It is a huge honour to play in every match in this competition. As a 23-year-old, it is a dream-come-true to be part of this team. I am working hard to polish up my game.”
The Kerteh-born had lucrative offers from several clubs for next season but turned them down to focus on his career with Terengganu.
“It is my duty to serve Terengganu as they helped me to become a good footballer. Furthermore, I do not like being away from my family for long periods,” said Zubir, who played in the 2011 Indonesia Sea Games and also in the recent Incheon Asian Games.
As for Norshahrul, the 28-year-old is also looking forward to make his sixth straight appearance in the starting lineup for Malaysia when they take on Thailand in the final, first leg in Bangkok tomorrow.
Regarded as one of the most outstanding strikers in the country, Norshahrul ended his drought by scoring in the 4-2 win over Vietnam in Hanoi and now the former Kelantan player is hungry for more.