We’re Getting There, Says Striker
Digicel Fijian football striker Anish Khem believes they are coping well when it comes to playing fast football.
The 28-year-old, is camping with the national team at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba, preparing for the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Qatar in March.
He said their combinations are coming together as they (players) understand the objectives set by head coach Flemming Serristlev.
“Playing fast pace football is one of them,” Khem told SUNsports.
“We have been preparing for some weeks now and it is going well. There is a bit of intensity but the boys are gelling well.
“The coach wants us to play fast football and we’re really trying to adapt to it. We are getting there, fast and hard passes.
“With a few senior players around, many young players are doing well and trying to help each other out.”
Khem, who is a school teacher represented the Fijian Under-23 side to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Why Suva?
He also spoke about his move from Rewa to Suva during this Transfer Window.“It is a positive one and I thank Rewa Football for releasing me.
“We had a talk and they appreciated my contribution to the team,” Khem said.
He highlighted that fans posting on social media criticising Suva Football’s move to recruit more players is basically nonsense.
“I’m looking forward to play for Suva and I thank them for accepting me. I will give my best,” Khem said.
“I’ve been reading a lot of comments on social media about Suva being labelled a ‘poaching’ team and stuff like that.
“Fans got to understand that players need money for their family’s needs.
“It is their bread and butter.
“We have seen that with international football clubs.
“Whoever pays more and the players are up to it.
“Good on Suva officials as they are doing really well with players. In Suva none of the players would love to leave.”
Khem has already played for Nadi, Nadroga, Labasa, Dreketi and Rewa.
What’s Next
Meanwhile, the national squad will break camp on February 1.
The players are to return to their districts and prepare for the opening round of the Digicel Premier League.
This is followed by the national team’s tour of Australia.
Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj
