Lions coach Takayuki Nishigaya has expressed "full confidence" in his team's ability to score at the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Championship, despite being hit by several late withdrawals.
Just days before their first match against Myanmar on Saturday, the Japanese coach lost chief striker Ikhsan Fandi and midfielder Adam Swandi to serious knee injuries. Forward Taufik Suparno then pulled out of the squad due to family reasons.
But Nishigaya appeared unfazed on Tuesday as he announced his 23-man squad, who include only four forwards with a tally of 15 goals.
The 49-year-old tactician said: "These things are unfortunate, but we have to adjust. I have full confidence we can combine and get the goals we need. I am not worried.
"Of course, it is disappointing to lose these players, but I want to demand that the team continue to stick together and play for them as well."
Denne historien er fra December 21, 2022-utgaven av The Straits Times.
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Denne historien er fra December 21, 2022-utgaven av The Straits Times.
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