Malaysian footballer attacked with acid – promises to play again

A Malaysian international who was seriously injured in an acid attack in May broke down in tears on Thursday and promised to return to football in “one to two months”.

Selangor FC winger Faisal Halim suffered fourth-degree burns to his neck, shoulder, hands and chest in the attack at a shopping mall outside Kuala Lumpur on May 5.

The popular 26-year-old, nicknamed “Mickey,” spent three weeks in hospital and underwent multiple surgeries for the burns on his skin.

Speaking to reporters for the first time after the ordeal, a tearful Faisal said: “I hope to be back on the pitch in the next one to two months, although the doctor says it could take up to six months.”

He added: “I am ready to start training again when the doctors give me the green light.”

Scars were visible on the left side of his head and face. He also appeared to be underweight and his physical movements seemed slower.

A dozen burly bodyguards in black accompanied the player to the press conference.

Faisal did not explain the reason, but said that he was “currently being held in a secret hideout with his family” and expressed hope that he “will soon be free and will no longer have to hide.”

Two people were arrested after the attack, but both were released without charge. It is unclear what is behind the attack.

Faisal’s case was the most serious and high-profile in a series of crimes against four top Malaysian footballers in May.

There is probably no connection between the incidents.

Faisal is an established Malaysian international whose equaliser against South Korea earlier this year was voted the most beautiful goal of the Asian Cup.

“I miss football,” added Faisal.

The Malaysian football season was scheduled to begin on May 10 with an opening match between Faisal’s Selangor and Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT).

Selangor withdrew, citing a “series of criminal incidents and recent threats”, but the league was able to resume the next day under tight security.

AFP