That's What Marzili Said
Grilled International defensive midfielder trainee Said bin Hj Ibrahim Husain moved on to Swiss Division Seven freshies BSC Marzili today, as part of head coach Daniel Plotke's first batch of eleven inductees into his squad. Most, like Said, arrived for nominal fees, the exceptions being Argentine Claudio Javier Cantu and Andorran Ramon Beneyto, with both of them nonetheless signed for less than six figures.
The 18 year-old had made making International's senior squad his aim since joining the Busy Bees at Adinath Pant's recommendation, but he would have to face up to reality eventually. While not of the exceptional level required to force his way directly into the International side, however, Said remained a very mobile player who showed a willingness to be deployed anywhere between defence and midfield - a very good sign for the watercarrier role.
Assistant coach Hafiz bin Hj Lamat would attest to Said's selflessness as a footballer, and held it as a virtue that more youngsters should strive to emulate. "Others may have to be told to play for the team, but with Said, it's just how he works. We could do with a lot more of him, compared to those who go for the nutmegs and rabonas, and quit after a week. If he has any shortcomings, it might be his habit of going a bit too far, in taking opponents down."
