KUALA LUMPUR: The commitment demonstrated by heritage player Richard Chin, who travelled thousands of miles from Scotland to play for Harimau Malaya, has earned praise from local football fans.
The 24-year-old Ross County player is one of four overseas-based players called up by interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe for two upcoming international friendlies – against China and Yemen.
On the official Malaysia NT Facebook page, supporters expressed pride and gratitude for Richard’s dedication after he arrived from Scotland to join the national squad before departing for China via Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Tuesday.
One supporter, Mohamad Muaz, said: “He travelled all the way from Scotland for the country (Malaysia) — this is what we want.”
Another fan, Juri Azmi, is keen to see
Richard given a key role: “Give him a spot in the starting XI.”
Zuhairi Mohamad described the midfielder as a “(My) favourite player, he is doing it for the nation” while Nazreen Shah Musa marvelled at the youngster’s raw quality, dubbing him “Chinaldo”.
Richard’s physical condition and fitness level also caught the eye of supporters.
Fan Hisamudin Yasin suggested the player be handed extended minutes on the pitch, noting: “Play him for 90 minutes, his stamina is tip-top.”
The outpouring of praise from local supporters appears fully justified given Richard’s stellar form with Ross County in the Scottish Third Division this season.
Richard leads the club’s performance charts as their standout figure, having bagged eight goals and provided four assists across 24 appearances, offering a significant boost to Harimau Malaya’s attacking options.