Latest news with #ZachClough
The Star
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Chasing silverware not the only motivation for Selangor's new midfield ace Clough
PETALING JAYA: Selangor's new attacking midfielder Zach Clough (pic) insists his move to the Red Giants goes beyond just chasing silverware. 'Coming to Selangor wasn't just a football decision, but a life experience,' said the Englishman, after the Super League side officially announced that he was their fifth import for the upcoming season. At 30, Clough brings a wealth of experience acquired from across English and Australian football. But it's his mindset off the pitch that may prove just as valuable to Selangor as his vision on it. The former Adelaide United star believes that this move is as much about growth as it is about goals. After bursting onto the scene with Bolton Wanderers in 2015, where he scored 23 goals in 77 appearances, Clough was touted as one of England's rising midfield talents. A high-profile transfer to Nottingham Forest followed, before stints with Wigan Athletic and Carlisle United saw him mature through both the challenges and joys of the Football League. His switch to the A-League in 2022 turned out to be a turning point not just professionally, but personally. With 22 goals in 93 appearances and a Player of the Year honour in the 2023-2024 season, Clough became a key figure for Adelaide. Now, with his chapter in Australia complete, he has set his sights on South-East Asia. 'I'm focused on adapting quickly by working hard, speaking with the players, and understanding what the coach wants from me,' said Clough. 'I have had the chance to play under many managers at different clubs, and I've faced both highs and setbacks along the way. All of that experience has shaped me, and I believe it's prepared me for this new challenge at Selangor.' Selangor coach Katsuhito Kinoshi will be banking on Clough's intelligence and composure in tight situations. Known for his quick decision-making, sharp runs into the box, and ability to improvise under pressure, Clough is expected to be a natural link between midfield and attack. His arrival should complement wide players like Alvin Fortes and Faisal Halim, who will relish delivering crosses to a midfielder who times his box entries with precision. Selangor, who will also compete in the Asian Champions League (ACL) Two and the AFF Club Championship this season, hope Clough's creativity and leadership will help guide them through a demanding schedule both domestically and internationally. 'Football moves so fast - not gonna lie, it feels like I was 18 just yesterday, and now I'm 30,' Clough reflected. 'That's why I've learned to appreciate the journey and enjoy every moment. These opportunities don't always come around, and I want to make the most of it, especially for myself, my family, and the fans.' Clough joins a refreshed Selangor squad that have also secured Thai midfielder Picha Autra, Brazilian forwards Chrigor Moraes and Willian Lira, and Afghanistani midfielder Omid Musawi. As they prepare for the Super League, FA Cup, and Malaysia Cup campaigns, Clough's arrival signals not only a new chapter in his own journey but a renewed belief in Selangor's ambitions for silverware.
The Star
15-07-2025
- Sport
- The Star
Selangor find their new playmaker in Clough after Orozco's exit
PETALING JAYA: Selangor are set to have a new chief playmaker at their disposal and he comes from England. Zach Clough (pic) is the man for the job and the news was broken by their former player and Australian football pundit Robbie Cornthwaite. 'Adelaide United midfielder Zach Clough has signed for Malaysian Super League giants Selangor,' he tweeted yesterday. The move will whet the appetite of Selangor fans, especially after the departure of Venezuelan playmaker Yohandry Orozco during the off-season. Clough brings with him a wealth of experience, creativity, and technical flair that Selangor hope will elevate their midfield to new heights. The 30-year-old playmaker is well known for his intelligence on the ball, sharp passing range, and an eye for goal, all attributes that have made him a standout in the English Football League and Australia's top tier. Having started his career at Bolton Wanderers, Clough quickly made a name for himself as one of the most exciting young talents in English football. He scored 21 goals in 68 appearances for Bolton and also had stints with Nottingham Forest and Wigan Athletic. Injuries may have disrupted parts of his career but at his best, Clough remains a dynamic attacking midfielder with an instinctive ability to unlock defences. At Adelaide United, Clough found his rhythm again, becoming a central figure in their attacking set-up. His vision and control in tight spaces proved vital for the Reds and his ability to drop deep and dictate play often allowed others around him to flourish. Last season in the A-League, he played 27 matches, scoring seven and making nine assists. Selangor's move for Clough signals their intent to challenge for silverware and build on the steady progress they made under coach Katsuhito Kinoshi. Clough is expected to slot into an advanced midfield role, potentially just behind the striker, where his ability to thread through passes and take on defenders could provide Selangor with the attacking edge they need. He could also be deployed as a winger. Fans of the Red Giants will be eager to see how quickly Clough adapts to the tempo and physicality of Malaysian football. However, given his technical style and prior experience adjusting to different leagues, there is confidence that he will make an immediate impact.
