Brad Tapp cleared by FIFA to represent Malaysia

FIFA has officially approved Brad Tapp to represent the Malaysia national football team, confirming his eligibility as a heritage player. The 25-year-old defender, who was born in Sydney, Australia, qualifies through his mother, who was born in Penang, Malaysia.

Tapp, who recently joined Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) from the Central Coast Mariners, is expected to bolster Malaysia's defensive line. Interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe can utilize Tapp's versatility, as he is capable of playing both as a center-back and a defensive midfielder. He is projected to compete alongside players such as Dion Cools, Harith Haiqal, and Ubaidullah Shamsul.

Tapp is included in the 23-man squad for the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup. Malaysia is scheduled to begin the tournament against Bangladesh on September 25, followed by a match against Indonesia and a group stage finale against Singapore on October 1.