Singapore's defensive rock, Baihakki Khaizan, wants to use this Sunday's Liverpool game as an opportunity to showcase his talent in hope of a dream move abroad.

By Kelvin Leong

The Geylang United defender has been an ever-present for the Lions since Raddy Avramovic gave him his national debut against Hong Kong in 2003.

For a 24-year-old footballer to have amassed 69 international caps is no mean feat and it just goes to show how much faith Avramovic has in the Eagles stalwart, whose partnership with Precious Emuejeraye has been a mainstay for the Lions side.

However, Baihakki showed no signs of pressure when quizzed about the upcoming game against his favourite player and the club he supports, Xabi Alonso of Liverpool fame.

"Yes it will be my first time playing against a Premier League side. Of course it is a pleasure and an honour to play against them. Liverpool's players are all top players.", chirped the charismatic Baihakki.

There was even an air of confidence surrounding Baihakki and his Lions teammates as they were put through their paces under the watchful eyes of Avramovic.

"I think we always approach every game the same way. Be it against a national team or club. Liverpool are no different, although they are a quality side. We just prepare like how we normally do."

And in a sweeping statement of intent that will send shockwaves across the makeshift ‘Kop' at Kallang, Baihakki said: "Of course Liverpool have got their dangermen. You are talking about very good players like Fernando Torres, Javier Mascherano, Andrei Voronin and many others.

"But if we play a compact defence like how Thailand did in their 1-1 draw against them, who knows we might just get a good result."

He was also quick to point out the stark difference between Asian and European footballers.

"I think the difference is that Asian players are quicker than the Europeans. They are bigger physically and the game against Thailand was a good example. How Sutee (Sukomsit) scored the goal, that is what we need to do in our game in order to get behind their defence."

Baihakki went on excitedly to reveal just what it will be like to have a full-house National Stadium decked out in red.

He laughed and said: "Its fine whoever the fans support. Our home colour is red, so is Liverpool's. So I don't mind it at all. It will be a win-win situation for both sides!"

But soon enough, the defensive lynchpin let us in on his little secret as to why the Liverpool game will be crucial to his career.

"Honestly, I am trying to get a chance to play abroad, so this game will be a chance to showcase my talent. You never know who might be out there in the stands watching.

"I have been in contact with a few Asian and European clubs but nothing is firmed up yet. It is really difficult for us to make the move to play overseas. All I really need is an opportunity!" he said with a firm voice.

With that, we at espnstar.com hope Baihakki Khaizan nullifies the likes of Fernando Torres, Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel at the Kallang cauldron come Sunday night.

That would come a long way in helping him secure his dream of playing abroad. Just like the man himself said, "You never know who is watching in the stands."