PETALING JAYA: Faisal Halim (pic) may have been out of action for close to four months now, but he has not been forgotten.
National coach Pau Marti has reassured the Selangor striker that he is one of the key assets in the Harimau Malaya set-up, although he has not been included in the squad for the Merdeka Tournament from Sept 4-8.
A horrific acid attack at a mall on May 5 by left Faisal with fourth degree burns on several parts of his body and he was forced to undergo several surgeries.
Faisal, 26, has shown admirable character and recovered quite fast to resume playing again for Selangor on Aug 3 in an FA Cup match against Negri Sembilan.
Despite his recovery, Faisal himself said he has not returned to his best and was obviously not picked by Marti.
However, the Spaniard has hailed Faisal’s spirit and character and stated that he has been in contact with the player all the while.
“I’m very happy that Faisal is playing again and is showing his strength and character. That’s something we all be proud of,” said Marti.
“I have met him and spoken to him and I think we need to give him some time. At the moment, he needs to focus on his fitness and his football with Selangor.
“I think the club and the FAM (Football Association of Malaysia) will find the best moment to bring him back (to the national team).”
The best news is that Faisal managed to play a full 45 minutes during the Selangor’s 2-1 win over a Singapore selection in the Sultan of Selangor Cup on Aug 17.
Faisal has said that he is still not at his best believes his moment may come in FA Cup final against holders Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) tomorrow.
Marti will also be watching from the stands as nine players from the Harimau Malaya squad – seven in JDT and two in Selangor – see in action during the final.
He will also be keeping an eye on Faisal’s performance. He needs to strengthen the squad for the AFF Cup which begins in December.
