KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor captain Safuwan Baharudin has hinted there are efforts to undermine the Red Giants.
Safuwan echoed a similar sentiment previously voiced by his teammate, Faisal Halim (after a 2-1 loss to Sabah) last season, which resulted in the latter suspended for four months by the FA of Malaysia.
And earlier this month, Faisal was splashed by acid by an unknown assailant at a shopping centre, resulting in serious injuries. Threats have also been made to Selangor FC team officials.
That's not all. On Wednesday evening, burglars broke into Selangor player Khuzaimi's house in Shah Alam and stole his Yamaha motorcycle, four branded sling bags, and a passport.
Safuwan called on his teammates to be united and strong in facing these difficult times.
Commenting on Selangor's season-opening 1-0 win over Kedah last week, Safuwan said: "I believe it's something worth celebrating, but with success comes the scrutiny of those who wish to see us falter."
Asked about the recent incidents involving Faisal and Khuzaimi, Singapore defender Safuwan said: "Off the field, there's little we can control. Despite these setbacks, our team's spirit remains unbroken."
The Selangor team will leave on Wednesday for the RCTI Premium Sports international competition in Jakarta. But before that, they aim to extend their winning streak against Negri Sembilan to six in a Super League match at MBPJ Stadium tomorrow.
Selangor coach Nidzam Jamil said: "In a club like Selangor, we must be prepared with solutions for any challenge thrown our way.
"We aim to keep the atmosphere vibrant. As long as our players are motivated and committed to representing Selangor, we'll fight till the end."