Subramaniam a/l Sooryapparad, born on 31 August 1985 in the vibrant town of Sungai Siput, Perak, is a name synonymous with resilience, versatility, and excellence in Malaysian football. Known for his exceptional skills as a centre-back and his adaptability as a defensive midfielder, Subramaniam’s journey is a testament to passion and determination.
Subramaniam a/l Sooryapparad: Early Beginnings with Perak
Subramaniam a/l Sooryapparad’s love affair with football began in 2004 when he joined the youth team of Perak FA. His raw talent and unwavering dedication quickly set him apart, earning him a pivotal role in shaping Perak’s defensive strategies.
Rise Through UPB-MyTeam
In 2006, Subramaniam a/l Sooryapparad‘s career took a significant leap when he was loaned to UPB-MyTeam. Under the guidance of coach Bojan Hodak, Subramaniam helped the team clinch the runner-up position in the 2006–07 Malaysia Premier League season, securing promotion to the prestigious Malaysia Super League. This period honed his skills and prepared him for greater challenges ahead.
The Return to Perak and National Recognition
Subramaniam a/l Sooryapparad returned to Perak in 2007, leaving an indelible mark during the Piala Malaysia campaign. Ironically, coach Steve Darby initially didn’t realize Subramaniam was a Perak player—a testament to his ability to surprise and impress. By 2009, he was named team captain, solidifying his leadership role.
His outstanding performances caught the attention of national selectors, and he represented Malaysia in pivotal matches, becoming a cornerstone of the national team.
Kelantan: The Golden Era
In 2010, Subramaniam a/l Sooryapparad joined Kelantan FA, where his career reached new heights. He played a crucial role in Kelantan’s historic victories, including:
- Winning the Malaysia Cup in 2010.
- Securing the Malaysia Super League title in 2011.
- Achieving a treble victory in 2012 by conquering the Malaysia Super League, FA Cup, and Malaysia Cup.
Triumph Over Adversity: The ACL Injury
Success was not without challenges. During the 2012 Malaysia Cup final, Subramaniam a/l Sooryapparad sustained a severe ACL injury after a collision with Hairuddin Omar. The injury sidelined him for six months, but his unwavering determination saw him return stronger than ever.
A Second Stint with Kelantan
After a successful tenure with Selangor FA, Subramaniam rejoined Kelantan in 2017. His return symbolized unfinished business, and his commitment to the team underscored his deep connection with the Kelantanese football community.
International Career: Flying the Malaysian Flag High
Subramaniam’s international journey began with the Malaysia Under-23 team, where he not only played but also captained the side on multiple occasions. From the 2007 SEA Games to Olympic qualifiers, his defensive prowess earned him respect.
He made his senior debut against Indonesia in 2008 and represented Malaysia XI in high-profile matches, including a face-off with Chelsea. Despite setbacks, Subramaniam remained a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring footballers.
Personal Life and Legacy
Born in the heart of Sungai Siput, Subramaniam’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated footballer is nothing short of inspiring. His story resonates with the values of hard work, perseverance, and resilience, making him a role model for young Malaysians.
Honours and Achievements
Subramaniam’s career is adorned with accolades:
- Johor Darul Ta’zim: Malaysia Super League Champion (2014).
- Kelantan FA: Malaysia Cup Winner (2010, 2012), Malaysia Super League Winner (2011, 2012), and FA Cup Winner (2012).
- Selangor FA: Malaysia Cup Runner-up (2016).
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