Faizal to bolster Speedy Tigers in the absence of Marhan

PETALING JAYA: The Speedy Tigers will be strengthened by midfielder Faizal Saari (pic) in the absence of the injured Marhan Jalil for the Nations Cup in Potchefstroom, South Africa, from Nov 28-Dec 4.

Faizal missed the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh earlier this month due to his involvement in the Dutch premier league (Hoofdklasse) where he played for ZSV Schaerweijde but returned home on Tuesday.

According to the Nations Cup team list released by the world governing body FIH, Malaysia have also included three others – goalkeeper Adrian Andy Albert, defender Syarman Mat Tee and striker Ramadan Rosli – besides Faizal for the South African campaign.

A growing list of injuries has limited national coach A. Arulselvaraj’s options as he named the 20-man squad and defender Najmi Farizal Jazlan is expected to lead again in the absence of Marhan.

Najmi wore the captain’s armband for the first time at the Azlan Shah Cup and heroically led them to a maiden triumph in the competition’s 39-year history.

Marhan (foot injury) and striker Shahril Saabah (knee and ankle) have been given a longer time to recover and gradually return to training as their main focus will be on the World Cup in India from Jan 13-29.

Reserve goalkeeper Zaimi Mat Deris, who picked up a hamstring injury during the Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh last week, will see Adrian making a return as Hafizuddin Othman’s deputy for the Nations Cup.

Defender Syafiq Hassan was the other notable omission but the experienced player, who had suffered a knock during the Azlan Shah Cup, may have also been given a longer period to recover before the World Cup.

Malaysia are in Group B with South Korea, Canada and Japan for the Nations Cup. Group A consists of France, Ireland, Pakistan and South Africa.

The Tigers will play Asian rivals South Korea in their opening match on Nov 28.