KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 13 — Malaysian League (M-League) teams have well received the Malaysian Football League’s (MFL) decision to only allow three weeks of training prior to the season’s kick-off on March 5.
With pre-season preparations allowed from Monday (February 15), the teams are also fully aware of the tight standard operation procedures (SOP) set by the National Security Council (MKN) following a briefing session chaired by MFL chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan.
Kedah Darul Aman (KDA) FC CEO Khamal Idris Ali said the decision was accepted after the clubs heard the constraints faced by MFL in ensuring that all M-League matches could be finished this season, besides taking into account the international match calendar set by the International Football Federation (FIFA) for national squads.
“Looking at certain factors including the need for the national team to have time to make preparations, we must also understand the national interest, and follow the majority that was in agreement.
“We are elated with the green light given by the government for us to undergo training and hold matches.
“In the current situation, the teams have indeed no option but to be creative in making preparations,’’ he said in a statement released by MFL.
Meanwhile, Kelantan FC CEO, Norizam Tukiman was also thankful the M-League was not postponed or cancelled.
‘’Maybe, if we look at it in terms of preparations the time period is rather short, but what is important is we are clear on the fact that football matches can now be held,’’ he said.
Negeri Sembilan FC general manager, Firdaus Bhari said the team’s fitness coach was ready with his plans to ensure the players were match fit prior to kick-off.
“Through the advice and monitoring of the fitness coach and doctor, the players can achieve their best physical shape during the training,’’ he said.
— Bernama
