It seems that the Azkals' star striker Phil Younghusband will not be able to play in Rangoon, Myanmar for the group qualifying tournament of the Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup.
Phil, who had a hamstring injury during the 2nd leg of their game against Mongolia last March 15, is still set to undergo MRI in Manila today to determine the extent of his injury.
We have high hopes, though, because Neil Etheridge confirmed his return to the Azkals after Fulham recalled him from the loan move to Charlton. It's supposed to be a month but Charlton didn't field Etheridge in two matches so Fulham recalled him. Fulham has also allowed the keeper's release for international duties.
Defender Rob Gier could also be available for the Myanmar group qualifying tournament. Also, the Filipino-Spanish striker Angel Guirado Aldeguer is also expected to make his debut in the Myanmar games.
Jason de Jong already confirmed his absence in the game against Myanmar. It seems that the Azkals isn't his priority anymore now that he's already in the Indonesia Super League.
Filipino-Danish players Jerry Lucena and Dennis Cagara will also miss the group stage. Lucena had an injury while training with Aarhus. Cagara, on the other hand, has not yet confirmed his participation.
Just like Phil Younghusband and Jerry Lucena, the Filipino-German fullback Stephan Schrock is also recovering from a knee injury.
Since Jason de Jong, Jerry Lucena, Dennis Cagara, Stephan Schrock, and Phil Younghusband are not playing, many are wondering what our chances are in the coming group qualifying stage. The Azkals have to win at least two out of the three games to make it to the main tournament in 2012.
Many have high hopes, though, (and that includes the blogger) because Neil Etheridge is playing. Let's just hope that Rob Gier and Angel Guirado Aldeguer will also be able to play in Myanmar.
0 comments:
Post a Comment