GEORGETOWN: Felda United are prepared to leave their import striker Leonel Saint-Preux out in the cold when the Malaysia Cup begins on Aug 20.
The 28-year-old Haitian international, who was signed on during the Super League mid-season transfer window in April, has been a disappointment so far.
His tally of one goal from 11 matches has caused coach Azuan Zain to lose patience with the striker.
Felda were relegated to the Premier League by virtue of an inferior goal difference after finishing 11th in the top flight.
“Felda signed Leonel to score goals to stave off relegation in the second half of the season but he failed to deliver. Unless there is a major improvement in his form, I would place my faith on the local strikers for the Malaysia Cup campaign,” said Azuan yesterday.
The Felda coach will need to wait before checking on Saint-Preux’s form as the striker has not returned to Malaysia after representing Haiti at the CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament in the United States last month.
“The last I heard from him was that he was injured during the Gold Cup and is seeking treatment in the United States.
“He will only report back for training on Aug 10 and I will have a week to assess his fitness and form,” added the coach.
If Azuan chooses to sideline the Haiti striker, he can call upon Rudie Ramli, Shahrizal Saad or Razali Umar Kandasamy to lead Felda’s frontline.
Besides Saint-Preux, the other import player in Felda’s ranks is Republic of Congo midfielder Nsumbu Mazuwa.
Win a prize this Mother's Day by subscribing to our annual plan now! T&C applies.
