PETALING JAYA: Kedah coach Nafuzi Zain is looking at the tough situation that he and his side are in as a life-changing experience.
The Canaries had to endure a 5-0 thrashing by Kuala Lumpur after their first-team players refused to join training or matchday squads until their salary arrears are settled.
Nafuzi had to resort to using players from the President and Youth Cup squads, who proved no match for KL’s first team.
After the match, Nafuzi was subjected to some heavy questioning by reporters for about 15 minutes which he handled calmly and profesionally.
‘’For any coach, it’s tough to prepare the best team when the first team players are not playing,” said the former Terengganu coach.
“We had a short preparation, about four to five days. This is the only team we have at the moment to play in the league. I want to thank the young players for being with us at this point of time.
“I hope this problem can be solved soon. We will lose out if the situation continues.’’
Nafuzi added that he understood the tight situation that the first-team players are in.
“The players have their responsibilities and I understand the decision they had to make. I know some will be leaving but I can’t confirm it. So far, only Habib Haroon and Kalamullah (Al-Hafiz) have left.’’
Nafuzi, however, said that he does not intend to leave the team as this hard experience will only make him stronger as a coach.
“I’m learning how to handle a crisis, and it’s all part of the process of becoming a better coach.’’
If the situation continues, the club could be in dire straits, with relegation looming and also financial sanctions from the Malaysian Football League (MFL).
Kedah lie 10th in the league with eight points.
