Big headache for Sathia as Giants down to bare bones
PETALING JAYA: Selangor’s expanding crocked list is giving coach B. Sathianathan a headache ahead of their Super League clash against Perak at the Shah Alam Stadium tonight.
The latest addition to the treatment table is winger Syazwan Zainon who is down with a knee injury.
The Red Giants are currently without midfielder Endrick Dos Santos (groin), striker Rufino Segovia (ankle) and Wan Zack Wan Haikal (knee).
Sathianathan’s men showed tremendous character in their 4-3 comeback win over Melaka last week but the latest injury setback could deflate Selangor’s fighting spirit and end their four-match winning run.
The good news for Sathia is the return of youngster Syahmi Safari who seems to have shrugged off a hamstring injury.
“We’re down to bare bones in the squad and will have only two imports for this match. Syahmi will be back for this game but I can’t start him because he still lacks match fitness,” said the former national team coach.
“This puts us in a difficult situation against the reigning Malaysia Cup champions Perak. They may not be in winning form but they’re still a formidable side.
“The positive thing for us is our players have good momentum and are highly motivated following our recent wins despite missing key players. I see that the youngsters in the team are putting in a good shift when given the chance.”
Selangor are currently fifth in the 12-team Super League standings with 12 points. Defending Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) top the table with 20 points.
Perak, who are eighth in the standings with eight points, have only chalked up one win in seven matches but Sathianathan said that the Seladang can’t be taken lightly.
The 60-year-old coach rates Perak’s Brazilian duo – striker Gilmar Filho and midfielder Wander Luiz – capable of turning the tables on Selangor if left unchecked.
“I have watched Perak’s last game against PKNS and they were unlucky not to win that game.
“They are desperate for a win so they will be throwing everything at us,” said Sathianathan.
“They have a good coach in Mehmet Durakovic who delivered the Malaysia Cup for them last year and I am sure he will have a plan for the match against us.”