Hariss clinches fourth MSL title
With a fourth consecutive Malaysian Super League title, Singapore's top midfielder Hariss Harun has set a record that is unlikely to be beaten in the short term.
But the 26-year has already set his sights on retaining the AFC Cup with Johor Darul Ta'zim I.
"I'm very happy with this win and to do it four seasons in a row, three times with JDT and once with LionsXII, is an unbelievable feeling," said Hariss (inset).
He did not play in Friday's title-sealing 3-0 win over Terengganu due to suspension, but was instrumental in dominating the midfield in 17 league games, scoring one goal.
"We have two more games to maintain our unbeaten record in the league this season and we will go all out to try to accomplish this special achievement," he said.
Since joining the Malaysian giants in 2014, Hariss has won an incredible seven trophies - three MSL titles, two Charity Shields, this year's FA Cup and last year's AFC Cup.
FIRST SINGAPOREAN
The AFC Cup victory was the first for a team from Asean and Hariss is also the first Singaporean to win the competition.
JDT I are currently in the AFC Cup semi-finals, in which they will play two legs against Hong Kong's South China over the next two Wednesdays.
A victory could set up a tantalising clash with his national teammates, as Tampines Rovers take on India's Bengaluru FC in the other semi-final over the next two Thursdays.
Regardless of the opposition, Hariss said: "We are the AFC Cup champions and we want to go all the way again."
After his stellar performances for JDT I, he was rewarded last year with a two-year contract, with the option for a two-year extension.
Sources from Malaysia told The New Paper the deal is worth around US$30,000 ($40,500) a month, which makes him the highest-paid Singapore footballer in history.
The Lions will hope their high-flyer will carry over his rich vein of form on to the international stage.
They have been drawn into the group of death alongside defending champions Thailand, co-hosts the Philippines and Indonesia in the AFF Suzuki Cup, which kicks off on Nov 19.
"Definitely, to win an international trophy with the national team is something else. I believe the teams are evenly matched, and we have every chance of another successful campaign," said Hariss, who was part of the 2012 Suzuki Cup-winning team.
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