Cardiff City Offer Trial To Malaysian Striker

Cardiff City are set to welcome Safee Sali, a Malaysian striker for for National side, to South Wales for a 2-week trial.

City are short of options up front, with Kenny Miller and Robert Earnshaw similar in style and stature. Rudy Gestede and Joe Mason are inexperienced while burly targetman Jon Parkin is out of favour.

The Bluebirds have strong ties to Malaysia through the continued investment of Vincent Tan and Dato Chan Tien Ghee. They have stabilised the club's finances and are looking to extend the relationship by marketing - the new season shirts are branded with malaysia, while a new eCosway shop has opened in the St David's centre.

Sali is due to arrive in the UK on Monday afternoon and will meet up with the squad this week for training. He has scored 16 goals in 31 appearnaces for Malaysia since making his debut in 2006.

Sali told the Malay Mail:

'It all started when Cardiff City contacted my agent about the arrangement. When my agent told me, I was in a state of shock. I didn't believe it at first, thinking it was a practical joke. Then my agent had to reassure me that it was for real - that Cardiff City was really interested in having me on board for a two-week stint.'

'It slowly sank in and naturally, I was elated over the whole matter. I'm still very happy and really excited. In a few hours time, I'll be flying off but I do have several concerns — one being my old (knee) injury.'

'I'm praying that I will be fit and well throughout my time there. Language too will be an obstacle. But I hope I will be able to adapt quickly and make the best of my opportunity.'

'Yes, I know I've been linked to the Bundesliga, too. A good showing in Cardiff would surely help me secure something in Europe.'

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