Winger A. Selvan is a footballer who does not easily give up.

The 22-year-old was looking forward to playing in the Hanoi Sea Games, but he was left out following a minor knee surgery to repair his meniscus.

Undeterred, Selvan is determined to regain his fitness and fight for a place in Malaysia’s Under-23 Asian Cup team.

The tournament will be held next month in Uzbekistan.

Selvan first rose to prominence when he helped Negri Sembilan win the Premier League last season.

And his good club form earned him a call-up for the Under-23 AFF Championship in Cambodia on February.

Coach Brad Maloney tested newcomers in Cambodia, and Selvan passed the test with flying colours, although the team failed to get past the group stage.

The Port Dickson-born was called up for the Sea Games but could not answer it after sustaining a knee injury in Negri’s 2-1 win over KL City in a Super League match on April 24.

“I was looking forward to playing for the Under-23 team in the Sea Games.

“I was excited as I believe I did decently in my first national youth assignment at the AFF tournament,” said Selvan.

“But disaster struck as I suffered a knee injury during a league game.”

Selvan underwent an arthroscopy and is now focusing on his recovery.

“The coach has advised me to focus on my recovery. I would need about three weeks before I can start training again.

“I will have to play catch up when I am cleared to play. I am confident I will be able to train soon and fight for my place for the Under-23 Asian Cup.

“There is no pressure at all. I always do my best to enjoy the game, and I hope I will be able to train soon,” he added.