Just one problem
Syazwan’s exit leaves gaping hole in KL defence
KUALA LUMPUR: For coach Yusri Che Lah, Syazwan Andik Ishak’s departure is set to leave a gaping hole in Kuala Lumpur’s defence.
The City Boys were dealt a blow when Syazwan left the club after he was not paid salaries in November and December.
Yusri said he would find a suitable replacement for Syazwan.
“I feel a little disappointed but as a coach, I’ve to respect his decision. I was already preparing my first match of the season with him in the lineup, but all that has been disrupted,” said Yusri.
“He’s a quality player but now we’ve to look for alternatives. We have Fitri Omar and Hafiz Johar who can play in his position.”
He has urged the young Hafiz to take the opportunity to fight for a spot and prove his credentials to the club.
“Hafiz is young and can improve further. This is the time for him to compete with Fitri,” he said.
Fitri, who played for Terengganu last season, is one of Kuala Lumpur’s new signings and is expected to be the first-choice leftback.
Meanwhile, Yusri also lamented the team’s injury crisis following injuries to Ahmed Jufriyanto, Khair Jones and Guilherme De Paula. Jufriyanto and Khair have been ruled out from the first two matches while De Paula has missed the last two friendly matches due to a tendon injury.
Yusri will be banking on new signing, Japanese midfielder Ryutaro Karube, and Irfan Zakaria in the absence of centrebacks Jufriyanto and Khair.
“I’ve been playing this combination (Karube and Irfan) in several pre-season matches, and I hope they get their rhythm and partnership right before the first game,” said Yusri.
“We hope De Paula returns as soon as possible because we want him to combine with Sylvano (Dominique Comvalius). They’ve not played together so far and that’s a worry.”
Kuala Lumpur retained 85% of last season’s squad and have signed Dutch striker Comvalius, Karube; defenders Khair, Fitri, Alif Samsudin; midfielder Mohd Haziq Muiz; and goalkeeper Faridzuean Kamarudin.
KL kick off their Super League campaign against Pahang at the Cheras Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on Feb 1.