Fandi Ahmad: We lost one of our own
The death of one of the students of his football academy has left football legend Fandi Ahmad "devastated".
In a statement to The New Paper, Fandi said that Tanjong Katong Primary School student Ameer Ryyan bin Mohd Adeed Sanjay, who trained with Fandi's F-17 Academy, "had all the right ingredients" to be a football star.
"When news broke that he was one of those who lost their lives, I was devastated," he said.
"I had really hoped to witness Ameer Ryyan's rise in football. He had all the right ingredients, a good attitude, fitness, discipline, skills and parents who loved him dearly and really supported his dreams.
"It is truly a sad day for me and my F-17 team.
"We lost a child. We lost one of our own."
He extended his deepest condolences to Ameer Ryyan's parents Sanjay and Anita, and said his team are doing all they can to assist Ameer's family.
Ameer, 12, is one of the Tanjong Katong Primary School students who died in the Sabah earthquake.
Ameer was training with F-17's elite squad and was coached by former national player Steven Tan.
Tan called Ameer one of the "bright stars" of the squad.
"Ryyan had flair in his game & loved curling his free kicks. He cared for his teammates, listened to instructions and had a great sense of humour.
He was a good kid and I will miss him dearly. I know his parents Sanjay and Anita, and little Sonya, real good supportive family.
Being a father myself, I can only imagine how difficult it must be for them. My heart goes out to his parents." - Steven Tan
Ameer Ryyan in a team photo. He and his father are in the center. Photo: FANDI AHMAD F-17 Academy
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