KUALA LUMPUR: Natxo Insa's presence in the national football team tends to kick up much debate.
The Spanish-born midfielder has earned a national recall from coach Pau Marti Vicente after he was panned by fans for his lacklustre showing in the Asian Cup in January.
But it's hard to ignore Insa when he has been in brilliant form for JDT in the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) and Super League.
Former national player Hasnizam Uzir said Natxo's fiery form with JDT proved he's ready to play for the national team.
"There's no doubt about his quality. His consistency and leadership at JDT speak volumes."
With his game time at JDT increasing under coach Hector Bidoglio, Insa has shown the kind of versatility and discipline that could be a plus to Harimau Malaya.
Insa's resurgence in the ACLE
where he impressed with his leadership and tactical awareness, is another reason why his return is timely.
His name was included in the national training roster released by FAM recently alongside 20 players retained from last month's training camp in New Zealand.