PETALING JAYA: Panic is usually the default response when a national team coach loses key players due to injuries and suspensions right on the eve of crucial international fixtures.
But Tan Cheng Hoe is playing it cool despite making do with a depleted squad for their upcoming Tier 1 international friendlies against China and Yemen.
The Harimau Malaya will have to do without the core group from Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT), who have long formed the backbone of the national team.
Their predicament worsened a day before their departure to China when six players from Selangor pulled out due to injuries sustained during the second leg of the FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday.
Despite the crisis, Cheng Hoe remains calm and positive. He sees the situation as a golden opportunity to open the door for fringe players to step into the spotlight.
"A recurring challenge for any national side is over reliance on a fixed core of starting players," said Cheng Hoe, who left with the national team ahead of their upcoming Tier 1 friendly match against China in Zhaoqing City on Saturday.
"As coaches, we must be prepared for multiple contingencies whenever players face injuries or suspensions.
"It's our job to ensure the team remain competitive regardless of who steps onto the pitch.
"I remain positive about whoever joins the national team. I am confident that the players also possess the motivation and desire to perform for the national squad.
"We are giving them the chance to adapt to the tactical environment and prove their capabilities on the international stage
After China, Malaysia will take on Yemen on Nov 17.
Six Selangor players - Nooa Laine, Ahmad Zikri Khalili, A. Selvan, Sikh Izhan Nazrel Sikh Azman, Syahir Bashah and Harith Haiqal Adam Afkar - were ruled out due to injuries following Selangor's FA Cup semi-final second-leg defeat to Kuching City on Sunday.
Defender Quentin Cheng was the only Selangor player from the club to report for national duty.
Cheng Hoe has since called up five other players - Terengganu duo Suhaimi Husin and Safwan Mazlan, Sabah’s Dominic Tan, Kuala Lumpur City’s Syafiq Ahmad and Kuching City’s Ariff Farhan Mohd Isa, who helped his team reach the FA Cup final on Sunday.
At the same time, Cheng Hoe reminded his men to be wary of the tactical threats awaiting his side against China and Yemen.
China will be eager to arrest their poor run of form after suffering three consecutive defeats while Yemen arrive with renewed confidence following an impressive run in the Gulf Cup where they just missed out on the semi-finals.
"We must respect the Chinese team as no coach wants to lose for a fourth time. Likewise, we cannot overlook the fact that Yemen are currently performing at their best level," he added.
