PETALING JAYA: The saying “when it rains, it pours” truly encapsulates the plight of the national football team.
Following their 2-0 defeat to Thailand, Harimau Malaya will be without rightback Jimmy Raymond (pic) ahead of their crucial AFF Hyundai Cup fixture against the Philippines this Saturday at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium.
Interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe confirmed that the 30-year-old sustained a knee injury, although the extent of the damage remains uncertain.
“Our latest medical reports have ruled out Jimmy. Hopefully it doesn’t keep him out too long as he’s an important part of the squad,” he said before a training session at the UM Arena yesterday.
Jimmy, who started the last two games for Malaysia against Laos and Thailand, was just beginning to click in his partnership with winger Mohamadou Sumareh down the right.
Midfielder Endrick dos Santos has also been confirmed to miss the home game this week due to a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury sustained after the victory against Laos.
Three points in their final Group B match would book their place in the semi-finals, as they currently occupy second place with six points, having played a game more than Myanmar and the Philippines.
The Philippines will face the undefeated group leaders Thailand before travelling to Cheras, providing the home side with additional time for rest.
However, Cheng Hoe promptly dismissed any notion of an easy win.
“We cannot underestimate them. They have players who play in our league so they’re familiar with our style”
Moreover, the short turn around has left the coach and his team with little choice in calling in reinforcements.
“We’re still discussing the potential replacements. It’s the start of pre-season which makes it hard to get players to join us,” said Cheng Hoe.
The coach is relying on his more senior squad members to continue guiding the younger players as they get ready for the biggest match of the tournament so far.
“We need the experienced players to lead by example. Even the youngsters have shown what they’re capable of when given a chance.”
