New challenge: Syamer Kutty Abba posing for a photograph after signing for Kuala Lumpur. — Kuala Lumpur City

PETALING JAYA: Syamer Kutty Abba is ready for the grind, and he’s picked the heart of the city to prove he belongs at the top.

The 27-year-old defensive midfielder has made the move to Kuala Lumpur, on-loan from Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), in search of greater responsibility and consistent game time.

“I was encouraged by JDT to join KL’s challenge for the new season,” said the 42-cap Malaysian international.

“When I heard their plans, I was all in. It’s a new challenge, and it pushes me to fight for my place.”

That fight won’t come easily.

The competition in KL’s midfield is fierce, with established names like Kenny Pallraj, Zhafri Yahya, Ryan Lambert, and Arif Syaqirin already in the squad.

On top of that, two foreign midfielders, both reportedly from Spain, are set to join the fray.

But for Syamer, that only raises the stakes and his drive.

“All the midfielders here are versatile and bring different strengths. I know I have to be at my best every day to earn my spot in the starting eleven.”

In just five days of training, Syamer has already made his presence felt with his trademark intensity and tactical discipline.

Kuala Lumpur’s coaching staff see him as a potential midfield enforcer, a hardman who can dictate the tempo and break up opposition play.

For Syamer, the bigger picture remains clear, he wants to be back in the Harimau Malaya jersey.

Despite the emergence of several mixed heritage players and new options in central midfield, Syamer believes his experience and hunger still give him a seat at the table.

“When it comes to the national team, I’ll do whatever it takes to wear that jersey.

“It’s a pride and honour. From the day I turned professional, my goal has always been to represent Malaysia.”

And the credentials are there.

He was part of the side that lifted the 2024 Merdeka Tournament, finished as runner-up in the 2019 AFF Suzuki Cup, and was even named in the tournament’s best XI.

“In life, you’ve got to keep pushing to be better. In football, there’s always something to learn. At KL, I want minutes, I want growth, and I want to fight my way back into the national team.”

With his mindset and motivation, Syamer’s return to the top could just be a matter of time.