Veenod A/L Subramaniam, born on March 31, 1988, in Penang, Malaysia, is a name synonymous with dedication and versatility in Malaysian football. A professional footballer who plays as a midfielder, Veenod’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. From his beginnings as a marathon runner to becoming a dynamic force on the football field, his story demonstrates the power of resilience and adaptability.
The Early Days of Veenod A/L Subramaniam: A Runner Turned Footballer
Before his rise in football, Veenod was celebrated as a marathon runner in Penang. Representing his school and district in the 3000-meter steeplechase and 5000-meter events, he earned a reputation as a formidable athlete. However, at the age of 17, his passion shifted from the track to the pitch.
This transition was marked by his entry into the Bintang Biru Football Academy, where his natural talent flourished. Representing Penang in the Under-19 Youth Cup and later being promoted to the Penang President Cup team, Veenod laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career in football.
Rising Through the Ranks: The Club Career of Veenod A/L Subramaniam
In 2008, Veenod achieved a breakthrough, securing a spot in Penang’s first team. This was only the beginning of his ascent. In 2011, he joined USM and soon after caught the attention of Selangor’s former head coach, Irfan Bakti.
During the 2012 Malaysia Cup, Veenod A/L Subramaniam was loaned to Selangor, where he was introduced as a defensive midfielder—a position that showcased his versatility and tactical understanding of the game. This stint included six appearances and one goal, paving the way for a permanent move to Selangor in 2013.
Under the leadership of P. Maniam, Veenod A/L Subramaniam further demonstrated his adaptability, playing not only as a defensive midfielder but also as an attacking midfielder and right winger. His contributions were instrumental in Selangor’s journey to becoming Malaysia Cup champions in 2015 and runners-up in the 2016 Malaysia Cup.
Expanding Horizons: Moves to Kelantan and Melaka United
In 2017, Veenod signed a two-year contract with Kelantan, making an immediate impact in the Malaysia Super League. His debut for the team came in a 1-1 draw against Terengganu. Although his time with Kelantan was short-lived, his passion for the sport never wavered.
By mid-2018, Veenod joined Melaka United, continuing to prove himself as a valuable asset in Malaysian football.
International Recognition: Representing Malaysia
Veenod’s efforts on the domestic stage earned him a call-up to the Malaysian national team. He made his debut on September 6, 2016, as an early substitute in a friendly match against Indonesia. Despite the team’s 0-3 loss, this match marked an important milestone in his career, as he represented his nation with pride.
Achievements and Legacy
Honours with Selangor
- Malaysia Super League: Runner-up (2013, 2014)
- Malaysia Cup: Winner (2015), Runner-up (2016)
Veenod A/L Subramaniam’s career is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence. From marathon tracks to football stadiums, his journey showcases his ability to overcome challenges and adapt to new roles with ease.
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