KUALA LUMPUR (21 Nov 2012) – At just 19-years-old, Arthur Irawan might be a green horn in the AFF Suzuki Cup but what the lad lacks in experience, he more than makes it up with his love for Indonesia.
Disregarding the dilemma that is currently plaguing Indonesian football, Arthur said that he is very eager to be part of the starting 11 after missing out on the final selection two years ago.
“I love this country (Indonesia),” said Arthur. “And I want to defend the honour of the national team. It is my dream to play for the national team.”
Arthur, who plays for Espanyol B in Spain, is part of the final squad of 22 players that arrived into Kuala Lumpur this afternoon (pix).And following the uncertainty over the availability of Diego Michels following his arrest last week for assault, the position at rightback could well be Arthur’s for the taking.
“I can play in both positions at right back and also as a central midfielder,” quipped Arthur. “But it does not matter to me as long as I’m in the squad.
“My main motivation is to play well and to defend the honour of Indonesia – that is my main priority at the moment.”
