Araneta lauds Schrock effort

The Philippine Football Federation yesterday showered Filipino-German Stephan Schrock with praises following the retirement of the Philippine Azkals team captain after his stint in the ASEAN Football Federation Mitsubishi Electric Cup.

PFF president Mariano ‘Nonong’ Araneta said in a statement that he only has kind words for the 36-year-old midfielder who spent 11 years of his playing career with the Azkals.

Schrock played 57 games for the Azkals and scored six goals.

He is the lone Filipino footballer to score a goal in the Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup in 2019.

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank captain Stephan Schrock for his contributions to the national team for the last 11 years. He brought excitement with his playing style and also showed the way for the younger generation of players with his attitude and professionalism,” Araneta said.

“He has built a legacy with his leadership, passion, dedication and love for the country. He is always welcome to help the national team.”

While Schrock’s swan song ended with a 2-1 loss against Indonesia, he made sure to have his presence felt as he crossed the ball to Jens Rasmussen for a header in the 82nd minute.

Schrock said after the match he has yet to decide on the next move in his career but said he is adamant on his commitment to help out the new generation of Azkals.

“I haven’t made up my mind yet. It depends on the outcome of the talks I will have in the next couple of days,” said Schrock, who is the team captain of the Azkals Development Team in the Philippines Football League.

“Like I said, I’d love to be involved in football unlike others who retired and I wanna give back and we will see how that one pans out.”