BANGI: Ibrahim Manusi (pic) has yet to play a single minute at the Hyundai AFF Cup, but that has not dented his readiness to step up, even against a side as formidable as Vietnam.
With Harimau Malaya’s midfield options stretched thin due to absence of several key players, the 24-year-old could be handed a first taste of action when Malaysia host Vietnam in the first leg of the semi-finals at the Cheras Football Stadium today.
The Johor Darul Ta’zim II player is tipped to line up as a defensive midfielder which suits Ibrahim just fine.
“For me, there’s no pressure at all regarding the match against Vietnam. If coach Tan (Cheng Hoe) gives me the opportunity to play, I just need to give 100% commitment to the team,” he said.
“I can only prove myself during training. I don’t mind who gets to play, as long as the players give their absolute best for the team.”
The midfield has been hit hardest by Malaysia’s injury crisis, with Endrick Dos Santos (knee) and Aliff Haiqal Lau (hamstring) both ruled out while wingers Mohamadou Sumareh and Engku Nur Shakir Nur Yacob are also carrying injuries.
Ibrahim acknowledged the scale of the challenge posed by their visitors, but said the team were determined not to let their fans down.
“We know Vietnam are a good team with the quality of players they have, but we don’t want to disappoint our supporters who will be coming to the stadium. It will likely be an exciting match against Vietnam,” he said.
“What makes this Malaysia squad special is the mix of senior and young players, and those who are waiting for their first call-up. We hope we can go much further in the AFF tournament this time.”
Malaysia did not clear the group stage in the last edition two years ago.
