27 Sep SAFEE TO RETURN TO CARDIFF FOR TWO MORE WEEKS

Cardiff City manager Malky Mackay today put on record his views on Safee Sali as the Malaysian striker completed his visit to South Wales, having trained first hand with the Bluebirds.

“Safee joined us for a ten day trial, during which time he showed a great attitude and work ethic while soaking in the environment and the way we train here at Cardiff City,” said Mackay.

“Obviously it was a big change and a different style and level of football, though he adapted and integrated well with the squad. We also appreciate that it’s difficult to get a full picture during a short ten day period, especially with the number of games and match preparation we had during that time.

“With a mind to the need for Safee to play competitive games with the Malaysian national team and in Indonesia with Pelita Jaya, we have asked Safee to return to Cardiff City for a two week period in the future which will be beneficial to all concerned. For now, though we say our goodbyes and would like to put on record that we consider Safee to be a credit to his team and his country.”

Safee also had words on the experience after an insightful time in Cardiff, saying, “After playing with the reserves and even the first team at training, I have found the game here to be very much quicker. You do not get so much time with the ball. It is a whole new and different level.

“The training has gone well and all my team-mates gave me a really warm welcome. Although it has been just two weeks, I have learned since I have been here. God willing, I may return to play here in the near future.”

Safee was a spectator for the match between Cardiff City and Leicester City on Sunday. The match was also attended by Malaysian High Commissioner to Britain Datuk Zakaria Sulong and his wife, who participated in the Malaysia Day celebrations observed by the club. Safee will now return to Malaysia on Tuesday to prepare for an international match with Australia next month.