KUALA LUMPUR: Perak's South Korean striker Seo Seo Nung could make a sensational return when the Bos Gaurus entertain Penang in Wednesday's Super League match in Ipoh.
Seo Nung was left with a broken nose after being kicked in the face by Kedah defender Rodney Celvin Akwensivie during last week's 3-1 Malaysia Cup win.
Rodney has since apologised to Seo Nung.
"Our medical team is assessing Seo Nung's situation. We have purchased a protective mask for him.
"The Korean is an important player, and he will definitely play tomorrow (Wednesday) if he is fit," said Perak coach Yusri Che Lah on Tuesday.
Perak need the points as they are 11th in the 14-team league standings with only 13 points from 18 matches, and Seo Nung's involvement could inspire his team to victory on Wednesday.
Seo Nung has scored seven goals this season.
Penang are one rung above their rivals with 19 points.
Perak hope to climb up the table with the help of their new signings — Serbian striker Luka Milunovic, Filipino defender Jesper Nyholm, midfielder Firdaus Saiyadi and Azalinullah Alias.
Coach Yusri Che Lah said: "We must take advantage of playing at home to collect points against Penang.
"My players are starting to feel confident, thanks to our new signings. Our goal is to climb up the standings and finish decently this season.
"We must make use of our good form to win matches consistently.
"Frankly, I did not expect us to beat Kedah. It has boosted our confidence."
However, Yusri, who replaced former coach Lim Teong Kim in May, warned his men against taking the Panthers lightly.
"I have reminded my players not to underestimate Penang, who have lost their last three matches, including the Malaysia Cup," he added.