Penang's David Rowley is a footballer made of steel, so to speak.
He has been playing for his Super League side despite carrying an injury.
The 31-year-old suffered a hairline fracture in his hand in the 0-0 draw with UiTM at the City Stadium on March 16.
The midfielder, who is of Malaysian-Australian parentage, revealed that he does not need surgery for the injury.
"I played the last two matches as a sub. However, I am still satisfied as I was still able to play," said Rowley.
Penang, who won last season's Premier League title, are fourth in the standings with 19 points.
The Panthers have been recording notable results, including wins over Pahang (3-0), Selangor (2-0), Melaka (2-1) and Perak (2-1), this season.
Unbeaten in their last eight matches, they face Terengganu at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak on Saturday.
Rowley credits the team's fighting spirit and winning mentality for their impressive form this season.
"Our focus is to progress after each match. Of course, challenging for the title will be tough as we are newcomers. However, we will try to finish as high as possible in the standings.
"It is still early, but as of now, we are within the target of finishing top six in the league."
Rowley, who started his M-League career with Police in 2018, won the FA Cup with Kedah in 2019.
"I play a bigger role in midfield with Penang. I get regular football, and I am happy here," he added.