KUALA LUMPUR: Dutch footballer Mats Deijl, the captain of Go Ahead Eagles in the Eredivisie, is set to don Harimau Malaya colours soon.
The 27-year-old defender, whose grandfather was born in Malaysia, has submitted the necessary documents to the FA of Malaysia (FAM) for review.
It is the first step towards applying for a Malaysian passport.
During an interview posted on Instagram's sameneustijgerbalsem, Deijl said: "The paperwork is done. I've submitted all necessary documents, including my grandfather's birth certificate.
"Everything is with the authorities, and now it's just a matter of processing the passport.
"I really want this. If I could play for Malaysia as early as December, it would be amazing," said Deijl.
FAM president Tan Sri Hamidin Amin confirmed Deijl's interest earlier this month.
According to Hamidin, Deijl reached out to FAM and head coach Pau Marti Vicente, expressing his eagerness to represent Malaysia.
"His grandfather is from Malaysia, so we're currently processing his application," said Hamidin.
Deijl's potential inclusion will strengthen the national team for upcoming international matches.