PETALING JAYA: A. Selvan has been a loyal servant of Negri Sembilan football for seven years, and he aims to show the same commitment when he begins his fourth Super League season with the club.

The 24-year-old winger from Seremban began his journey with the state’s youth set-ups, the Youth and President’s Cup teams, in 2018.

Since then, his love for the club and state has been unwavering. But this season, Selvan isn’t just here to represent, he’s here to prove a point.

“I’ve been with Negri for a long time now, over seven years. Sometimes I can’t believe it myself,” said Selvan with a smile. “Time really flies, and when people talk about my journey, I do feel proud. But I know I’ve still got so much more to give.”

Selvan made his Super League debut in 2020, and while his career has had its ups and downs, he’s always found joy whenever he steps onto the pitch.

In the 2024-2025 season, he featured in 19 matches across all competitions, scoring six goals and providing one assist. His campaign didn’t start smoothly. Former coach Azzmi Aziz often favoured the experienced Hadin Azman on the flanks.

But when K. Nanthakumar took over in an interim capacity, Selvan seized his opportunity and reminded everyone why he’s considered one of Malaysia’s most exciting wingers.

Now, with head coach Nidzam Jamil leading the team, Selvan is preparing for a new chapter, one filled with both opportunity and intense competition.

Alongside Hadin, the club boast talents like Hakimi Abdullah, S. Vimal, and Luqman Hakim Shamsuddin, a natural striker who can also operate out wide.

On top of that, sources indicate that the Deer could soon welcome Bosnian winger Jovan Motika, formerly of Kuala Lumpur.

“With that kind of competition, nothing will come easy,” said Selvan. “The fight for a starting spot will be fierce, and I know I have to give everything during pre-season to stay in the mix.”

According to Selvan, training under coach Nidzam has been both challenging and rewarding.

“Coach Nidzam is helping me refine my game, he’s big on decision-making, timing of runs, positioning. All those little things that elevate your performance. I’m learning every day,” he said.

“But I also know what makes me stand out, my pace and dribbling. That’s my identity on the field, and I plan to make full use of it this season.”

For a boy who once dreamed of wearing the state jersey, the fire still burns bright. And this season, Selvan is ready to take flight and help Negri do way better than their 12th position last season.