KUALA LUMPUR: Former Thailand captain Teerasil Dangda believes Malaysia are in safe hands under coach Peter Cklamovski — a man he knows well from their time together in Japan.
“We worked together in Japan for a year. With his experience, I believe he will help Malaysian players develop and become stronger,” said the veteran striker.
Cklamovski, 47, is best known for his attacking philosophy and for serving as Ange Postecoglou’s assistant when Yokohama F Marinos won the 2019 J1 League title.
He later took charge of Shimizu S-Pulse in early 2020 before spells with Montedio Yamagata and FC Tokyo, and was unveiled as Malaysia’s head coach in December 2024.
Teerasil, Thailand’s all-time top scorer with over 60 goals, joined Shimizu S-Pulse in February 2020 after a long career with Muang Thong United.
His arrival coincided with Cklamovski’s appointment, giving him first-hand experience of the Australian’s methods.
Teerasil is no stranger to Malaysian football, having faced Harimau Malaya 13 times between 2007 and 2024.
“Yeah, I know Malaysia well. But I don’t think it’s an advantage. The atmosphere, the stadium and the fans make it tough. Even though I’ve played here many times, it’s always difficult,” he said after Bangkok United’s 4-2 win over Selangor in an Asian Champions League Two (ACL2) Group G match on Thursday.
Teerasil also welcomed Malaysia’s new push to send players to Europe.
“This is a new mode. If qualified players go, it will improve the quality of the Malaysian team. They are improving,” he said.
For the 37-year-old, Malaysia’s growing player pool combined with Cklamovski’s bold, possession-driven approach is a recipe for progress.
“I hope the new players continue to develop. Many players will form the backbone of Thailand’s national team. We have a goal in world football, we’ve targeted the Asian Cup. But Malaysia are definitely improving,” he said.
Having seen Cklamovski’s meticulous planning and fast, fluid football at Shimizu S-Pulse, Teerasil is convinced Malaysia have found the right man to lead their football revolution.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
