Replies to Media ● Nov 03, 2016
FAS’ Reply To Media Query Regarding National Team – Qatar Training Tour
What are the objectives of this training tour?
We are in the final phase of preparations for the AFF Suzuki Cup and one key objective of this training camp is to allow our coaches and medical staff to assess the conditions of our players after a long season, and take the necessary actions to prepare them to the best of our abilities.
The idea of staying together – with everyone focused on the same goal, will also strengthen team camaraderie and bonding. Team spirit is high and the senior players are constantly speaking to their young teammates.
At the same time, the players’ performances in the training sessions and matches over the next 10 days or so will decide the final 23-man squad for the competition.
Why Qatar for a few days?
Our squad comprises players from 11 different clubs and the ability to stay and train together on a daily basis will enable us to work on and strengthen the players’ tactical, physical and mental aspects.
We made some changes to our earlier programme after assessment and taking into consideration a few key factors, including the opportunity to play a top team like Syria. It is important for us to maintain a balance between training/matches and recovery at this stage and we believe our two-week itinerary in the lead up to the competition allows us to do so.
What are the team’s key goals in Qatar?
Our squad comprises players from 11 different clubs and the ability to stay and train together on a daily basis will enable us to work on and strengthen the players’ tactical, physical and mental aspects.
We made some changes to our earlier programme after assessment and taking into consideration a few key factors, including the opportunity to play a top team like Syria. It is important for us to maintain a balance between training/matches and recovery at this stage and we believe our two-week itinerary in the lead up to the competition allows us to do so.
How close are you to your first XI?
Some players have played consistently well over the last few months and they should be in the final squad unless they pick up an injury over the next two weeks. The others are competing well for the remaining spots in the 23-man squad and hence, the upcoming matches will be a key opportunity for them to select themselves for the competition.
We will name our best available starting 11 accordingly to our game plan and the type of opponents we will face during the competition but we would not want to give away too much details at this stage.
What are the positives and what are the main challenges for the Lions?
We have a good mix of experienced players (such as Shahril, Daniel and Hassan) and young players (like Iqbal and Anu) and I’m happy that they have the desire not just to be in the final 23-man squad but also to be in the starting lineup.
Like any other team, it is however important that we remain focused and disciplined throughout the match. On the field, our players must keep communicating and cover each other.
What are your views on the players fighting for a spot in the final squad?
We will finalise the 23-man squad after the friendly against Cambodia and it’s now the final opportunity for our players to show their hunger, desire and capabilities and prove that they deserve to be in the final squad.
Some players have played consistently well over the last few months and they should be in the final squad unless they pick up an injury over the next two weeks. The others are competing well for the remaining spots in the 23-man squad and hence, the upcoming matches (against Syria and Cambodia) will be a key opportunity for them to select themselves for the competition.
Is the semi-final a realistic target for Singapore or are we underdogs to make the final four?
There’s no doubt that this is a tough group but we are determined to do our best. In Football, there are always important factors which are beyond our control such as the decisions by the match officials and the fans’ support for the home team etc. But as long as we stick to our game plan and remain focused and calm during the match, I believe we have as good a chance as the other three teams.
– “National Team head coach V. Sundram Moorthy”
