Malaysia’s interim national football coach Tan Cheng Hoe has made prompt adjustments to the squad ahead of the FIFA Asean Cup after three key players were sidelined due to injury. The reshuffle was confirmed on Monday ahead of the team’s departure for Indonesia.

The players withdrawn include Johor Darul Ta’zim II fullback Faris Danish Mohd Asrul, who suffered a calf injury; PSM Makassar midfielder Sergio Aguero, who picked up an injury during the Hyundai Cup; and Terengganu striker Romel Morales, who is out with a hamstring problem. They have been replaced by Selangor centreback Harith Haiqal, Selangor midfielder Syahir Bashah, and Kuala Lumpur striker Paulo Josue, all of whom joined the squad as it traveled to Indonesia.

Malaysia will open its campaign against Bangladesh at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on Friday. The group stage places Malaysia in Group A alongside hosts Indonesia, Singapore, and invited guests Bangladesh. Only the group winners will advance directly to the final, while the runners-up will compete in a third-place playoff.

Discussing the squad changes at a press conference in Petaling Jaya, Tan Cheng Hoe said the replacements were necessary given the injured players were not at full fitness. He highlighted Syahir Bashah as a newcomer to the national team but noted the midfielder’s strong performances for Selangor made him a valuable addition.

Cheng Hoe also expressed optimism about the inclusion of several Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) players, including striker Bergson Da Silva, defender Bradley Tapp, and winger Manuel Hidalgo. He emphasized Bergson’s proven goal-scoring ability and compatibility with local players, while praising Tapp’s physical presence and defensive reliability.

Although Malaysia faces group favorites Indonesia and competitive sides like Singapore and Bangladesh, Cheng Hoe urged caution and respect for all opponents. He stressed that each match would be closely contested and described the opening game against Bangladesh as a critical challenge that cannot be underestimated.

When questioned about his future with the national team and the possibility of having his interim tag removed based on the team’s performance, Cheng Hoe deferred to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). He stated that his immediate focus is solely on preparing the squad for the tournament.

The FIFA Asean Cup offers Malaysia an opportunity to rebuild its momentum in regional competition, and the coaching staff’s swift response to injuries aims to keep the team competitive from the outset.