PETALING JAYA: National head coach Peter Cklamovski breathed a sigh of relief after seeing key players Matthew Davies and Faisal Halim back on the training pitch.
Both had been sidelined with knee and groin injuries respectively, casting doubt over their availability for Malaysia’s 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers Group F clash against Nepal on Tuesday at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
But Cklamovski said it was encouraging to watch the duo gradually increase their training intensity.
“It’s good to see Matthew back in the squad. He’s a great leader for the group,” said the Australian.
“To have him back is pleasing. Right now, he’s on modified training with the medical team, but the plan is to progress him daily and get him into full team training before Nepal. It’s a day-by-day process.”
Matthew last featured for Harimau Malaya in the 4-0 win over Vietnam in July.
As for Faisal, Cklamovski said the winger was also trending in the right direction.
“Mickey (Faisal) is doing his modified work with the medical and high-performance teams,” said Cklamovski.
“He’s improving and looking more positive every day.”
Cklamovski added that the squad’s morale remains high as they chase a second straight win over Nepal, having beaten them 2-0 in their Asian Cup qualifier meeting in March.
“The team mentality is good, and everyone is in good condition. The boys are training hard on the pitch and doing everything right off it as well,” he added.
Malaysia remain unbeaten against Nepal in eight matches, winning seven and drawing once.
