BAFFLED: Rajagobal’s habit of using different players could pay off

   NATIONAL coach K. Rajagobal has  often been criticised for testing many  players in friendly matches but the move may pay dividends in today’s Asian Cup Group D qualifier against Bahrain at Shah Alam Stadium.

Bahrain coach Anthony Hudson watched six videos of Malaysia’s previous matches before arriving in Kuala Lumpur but none had similar lineups.

   “It will be tough to predict Malaysia’s lineup. Malaysia had slightly different lineups in each match,” said Hudson at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya yesterday.

   On his thoughts of Malaysian players, Hudson mentioned Safee Sali as the one with quality but the striker is unavailable due to injury.

   Bahrain lead the group following wins over Yemen (2-0) and Qatar (1-0) while Malaysia are third with three points.

   The former Arab Games champions are, however, wary of Malaysia after the 1-0 defeat to  Thailand in Bangkok four days ago.

   Hudson believes Malaysia are on par with Thailand but is confident his team will secure a win today.

   “We are not thinking about anything else. We are here to win this match. However, we respect Malaysia and foresee a tough game.

   “Malaysia have strengths and weaknesses but we have studied them. I have brought quality players who have played in big games and I am confident they will play to their ability.

   “We must take a cautious approach as our opponents are strong at home. However, we are prepared and ready for them,” said Hudson, who is the son of former England international Alan Hudson.

   Bahrain, however, will need to reshuffle their lineup in the absence of centre-back Mohamed Hussain and midfielder Faouzi Aaish.

   Hussain has not recovered from a knee injury while Faouzi withdrew from the squad due to personal reasons.

   “Hussain and Faouzi are key players but we have capable replacements. I am confident with my players and not too concerned about their absence.

   “I have several young players with experience. I do not look at age or experience as I only pick the best. We have a great team,” said Hudson, who was appointed Bahrain’s senior coach on Aug 13.

   As for Rajagobal, the former international is confident  his team have the quality for a good result.

   “We must finish ahead of either Bahrain or Qatar to qualify for the Asian Cup and I believe we can do it. Except for right-back Mahali Jasuli, the others are fit to play. We need to assess Mahali’s condition before the game,” said Rajagobal, whose contract expires on Dec 31.
   The coach, however, has to mix-and-match his lineup following injuries to key players.

   He will likely play goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Aidil Zafuan Radzak, Amiridzwan Taj Tajudin, K. Reuben, Asraruddin Putra Omar, Safiq Rahim, K. Gurusamy, S. Kunanlan, Azamuddin Akil, Amri Yahyah and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha.

The national team training for the match against Bahrain at Shah Alam Stadium yesterday. Pic by Goh Thean Howe