KUALA LUMPUR: When one Southern Tiger is sidelined, another can just step in.
Malaysia national football team coach Peter Cklamovski has called up Johor Darul Ta’zim midfielder Nathaniel Shio Hong Wan to replace Hector Hevel, who has withdrawn from the September training camp due to a foot injury.
After consultations with the medical team, Cklamovski confirmed that the Dutch-born player will undergo his recovery at JDT to ensure he returns fully fit for the October international window.
“It’s not ideal for Hector, but the medical team decided the best course of action is for him to recover at his club,” said Cklamovski on the first day of the national training camp at the Hyatt Place here yesterday.
“That way he’ll be ready for September’s matches and, more importantly, the October qualifiers.”
In Hevel’s absence, Cklamovski has turned to 25-year-old Nathaniel, who was part of the June camp but was not selected for the final squad.
The midfielder, who previously endured a lengthy layoff, impressed the national coach with his resilience and mentality.
“I spoke to Hong yesterday. He’s motivated and looking forward to being part of the national team again,”said Cklamovski.
“He has the talent and attributes to be a very good player. What’s important now is not to put too much pressure on him. This camp is about using the eight days to grow, take another step forward, and connect with the national programme.”
The call-up means in-form Kuala Lumpur City midfielder Ryan Lambert will have to wait longer for a return to the national side despite a strong Super League campaign.
Cklamovski acknowledged Lambert’s performances but stressed that the door remains open.
“Ryan is playing well and contributing for KL. If he feels disappointed, that’s fair,” said the Australian.
“But my message to him is - keep performing and proving a point. He’s on the list, he’s being watched every game. Whether it’s the next camp or later, he will get his chance.”
The camp officially kicked off yesterday, with some players already in and others, including leftback Gabriel Palmero and striker Rodrigo Holgado, due to arrive within 48 hours.
Malaysia are preparing for friendly matches against Singapore at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Thursday and Palestine at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri on Monday.
