When Malaysia take on Liverpool tomorrow, two key individuals in the national team set-up will have an added spirit do to their best.
The duo are none other than national coach Datuk K. Rajagobal and captain Safiq Rahim, who are both ardent supporters of Liverpool's rivals, Manchester United.
While Safiq admitted having the urge to play his heart out, the national coach only brushed away the question with a smile.
However, Rajagobal did say, as a coach, he must consider the team's long term benefit.
"What is important is the match against Singapore (World Cup qualifier). This match (Liverpool) gives me another chance to tinker with my players and make the necessary amendments," said Rajagobal.
"We were outplayed by Arsenal on Wednesday but hopefully, the players have learnt something from that match."
Safiq added that the team cannot afford to make silly mistakes.
"No doubt we cannot challenge them physically but on our part we must play well and not make mistakes," said the skipper.
According to Safiq, he learnt a lot, notably one touch short passing football, from playing Arsenal and is looking forward to learning more when he takes the field against Liverpool.
Safiq echoed the same tune as his manager, stating that what is most important in the tour of Arsenal and Liverpool is the experience gained before playing Singapore.
Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Kenny Daglish is looking forward to a good workout for his boys as they prepare for the upcoming English Premier League season.
"There will be mistakes from the players as they have just got back from a month's break," said the Liverpool legend.
Malaysia entertain Liverpool at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil tomorrow (kick-off at 5.45pm).
While Safiq admitted having the urge to play his heart out, the national coach only brushed away the question with a smile.
However, Rajagobal did say, as a coach, he must consider the team's long term benefit.
"What is important is the match against Singapore (World Cup qualifier). This match (Liverpool) gives me another chance to tinker with my players and make the necessary amendments," said Rajagobal.
"We were outplayed by Arsenal on Wednesday but hopefully, the players have learnt something from that match."
Safiq added that the team cannot afford to make silly mistakes.
"No doubt we cannot challenge them physically but on our part we must play well and not make mistakes," said the skipper.
According to Safiq, he learnt a lot, notably one touch short passing football, from playing Arsenal and is looking forward to learning more when he takes the field against Liverpool.
Safiq echoed the same tune as his manager, stating that what is most important in the tour of Arsenal and Liverpool is the experience gained before playing Singapore.
Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Kenny Daglish is looking forward to a good workout for his boys as they prepare for the upcoming English Premier League season.
"There will be mistakes from the players as they have just got back from a month's break," said the Liverpool legend.
Malaysia entertain Liverpool at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil tomorrow (kick-off at 5.45pm).
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