PETALING JAYA: The stage is set for reserves like Daniel Ting to shine in the absence of two key players for the World Cup 2026-Asian Cup 2027 second-round qualifiers.
On Sunday, national coach Kim Pan-gon announced that one of the team captains Matthew Davies, and Junior Eldstal will miss the action when the Harimau Malaya face Oman in Group D on Thursday in Muscat and in Bukit Jalil on March 26.
The South Korean said both the players were undergoing rehabilitation in the Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT)’s medical facilities after suffering injuries during a training game with their club on March 14.
Leftback Daniel could be the right man replacing Matthew, as he featured as a rightback in Malaysia’s historic 3-3 draw against South Korea in the Asian Cup.
But Daniel admits that the absence of both his mates would be felt.
“Of course, it is a big loss, particularly Matt, who is one of the leaders of the team. Both Matt and Junior are big characters, so we will miss them,” said the 31-year-old, who plays for Sabah in the Super League.
“But we have a lot of depth in the squad and it is a chance for some of us to make use of the opportunity.
“I have no problem if the coach wants me to play on the right. I have played in that position against South Korea and it was a good experience.
Besides Daniel, the other player who can play in that position is Azam Azmi Murad, who is a rightback for Terengganu.
Daniel said Oman would be enter the game as the favourites due to their superior ranking.
The side led by Jaroslav Silhavy are ranked 80th in the world, while Malaysia are ranked 132.
Not only that, they will also have better match fitness as they are involved in the Omani Professional League, which is currently halfway through the season.
“But it is up to us individually as professionals to make sure we are ready,” said Daniel.
“We want to make history by reaching the third round.”
