KUALA LUMPUR: New national head coach, Tan Cheng Hoe will be given all the space and freedom he needs to do whatever it takes that is best to revive and restore the image and stripes of Harimau Malaya.
Such an assurance was given by FA of Malaysia (FAM) president, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim who confirmed that the former Kedah coach has also been given the freedom to choose his own assistants.
However, Tunku Ismail wants Cheng Hoe to focus on instilling a winning mentality and spirit in each and every player which is a big problem for the national team.
"Based on the current situation, Cheng Hoe is the best person for the job. I hope he will do his very best and he has my full support.
"There is nothing else that’s new and he will remain on his existing two year contract. We will give him the space and freedom to do whatever he thinks is best for the national team.
"There are no high targets and the first thing he has to do is to change the players mentality to that of a winning one.
"Now we need to win matches, change the players mentality and work in addressing weaknesses,” said Tunku Ismail after chairing an FAM Exco meeting at Wisma FAM here today.
Last Wednesday, former national head coach Nelo Vingada tendered his resignation to take responsibility after failing to lead Malaysia to a win after seven games in charge.
Barely a day later, FAM announced the appointment of Cheng Hoe to fill the ‘hot seat’ with Tunku Ismail confirming that Cheng Hoe’s existing contract remains as agreed when he was appointed as Vingada’s assistant prior to this.
Meanwhile, Tunku Ismail has reminded the players not to think of a call up to the national team as a burden.
"Representing the country is not a burden in any way. As a player, the desire to achieve and win must always be there.
"By right, it is a form of appreciation and acknowledgement for players to represent the country,” he added.