Cheng Hoe wants uncapped players to strut their stuff

PETALING JAYA: National head coach Tan Cheng Hoe (pic) challenges five uncapped players to prove their worth for Malaysia.

Cheng Hoe has been pleased with the commitment and dedication shown by the newcomers and those who were recalled for national duty after many years in training. He wants them to strut their stuff at the Airmarine Cup from March 20-23 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

Malaysia will kick off their campaign against causeway rivals Singapore in the four-nation tournament while Oman take on Afghanistan.

The winners of these matches face each other in the final on March 23.

Cheng Hoe said the team were highly motivated and hoped they would translate it with a strong showing on the pitch.

“Training sessions have been smooth. There are new faces in the squad, and I’m very impressed with how they’ve acclimatised in the national team,” said Cheng Hoe.

“Their spirits are high - that’s good, but I want to make sure they adapt to the way we play. It is different from their clubs. Training sessions have been different for them, but they’ve adjusted.

“Playing against Singapore is not going to be easy. I’ve told the boys not to be emotional but just concentrate on the game.”

The former Kedah coach said players such as S. Kumaahran, Firdaus Saiyadi, both 22, and Abdul Halim Saari, 24, were players to watch out as the trio have shown great form in the league.

“They are young and hungry, and that’s good for the national team. I hope these players can add quality into our attack and midfield,” said Cheng Hoe.

Cheng Hoe however, is sweating over one thing – the fitness of 27-year-old Nicholas Swirad, who is nursing a slight groin injury.

“All are fit except for Nicholas, who has some tightness. I hope he recovers fast because I want to see how he plays,” said Cheng Hoe.

“I’ve been monitoring him since last year, and to me, he is a quality player. He is versatile and able to play anywhere at the back.

“I hope to see him recover quickly and make his national debut as a centreback against Singapore.”