FAM: It’s his choice

SAVING GRACE: If the ban on the ISL applies, Safee can at least go on loan to Pelita Jaya-affiliated sides Brisbane Roar, CS Vise or SAD Uruguay

KELANA JAYA: Safee Sali is well aware of the consequences but the FA of Malaysia (FAM) have no choice but to respect the national poacher’s decision to stay in the Indonesian Super League (ISL).

FAM vice-president Datuk Hamidin Amin, who is fully aware of the differences between the Indonesian FA (PSSI) and ISL, said Safee was a professional player and had exercised his right to play for the club of his choice.

Tension between PSSI officials and clubs playing in the breakaway ISL heightened late last year, forcing Fifa to issue a letter to PSSI demanding the national body get their house in order or those involved in their league would be banned.

The ban would apply to all players and officials from the ISL would see them not being able to participate in international tournaments.

Fifa only recognises one governing body and one league in all countries.

“We have spoken to Safee. In fact, Datuk Azzudin Ahmad (FAM secretary general) and I have personally met him on numerous occasions to explain the whole situation to him and the possibility of ISL being slapped with a ban,” explained Hamidin.

“Safee is well aware of the situation and the consequences and he has made his choice. As a professional player, he is entitled to chart his own future and we have no say.

“Let’s put it this way ... we can only advise him.”

Hamidin, who is also the FA of Selangor secretary and was involved in Safee’s transfer to Pelita Jaya from Selangor last year, admitted it would be a big loss if the national team were unable to use the striker.

“I hope the issues will be resolved soon. I’ll continue to communicate with Safee and we’ll see how it goes.”

Earlier on Wednesday, Safee announced he was signing a two-year contract with the Karawang-based club valued at more than RM2 million. This includes a house, car and personal driver. Other incentives include taxes and flight tickets back to Malaysia to be borne by the club.

Safee could also enjoy stints with Australia’s Brisbane Roar, Belgium’s CS Vise and SAD Uruguay. All three are owned by subsidiary club Pelita Jaya Cronus.

Pelita Jaya are placed seventh in the ISL, with Safee notching six goals so far.