KUALA LUMPUR: FA of Malaysia (FAM) president Datuk Hamidin Amin has condemned the shocking attacks on two national footballers last week.
And Hamidin has called for proactive measures to be taken in the protection of national players, including the hiring of bodyguards if feasible.
An alarmed Hamidin voiced his concerns after Akhyar Rashid and Faisal Halim suffered injuries when they were set upon by unknown assailants in separate incidents.
On Thursday, Terengganu player Akhyar Rashid was assaulted and robbed by two men in Kuala Terengganu as he was getting out of his car after a training session.
Yesterday, Selangor player Faisal Halim was reported to have been attacked with acid by several men at a shopping mall in the Klang Valley.
Faisal is reported to have suffered second degree burns on his head and arms.
"I was the first to visit Faisal and his wife last night, and it's truly disheartening," said Hamidin.
"My advice is that if we observe the top players overseas, they have security personnel. If feasible, especially for prominent players (here), why not consider it? It's a prudent measure," added Hamidin.
The FAM chief said he is leaving it to the police to investigate the attacks on Akhyar and Faisal, and urged the public not to speculate.
"What is crucial to me is Faisal's recovery and his focus on returning to the pitch," said Hamidin.
It remains to be been, whether winger Faisal, who will miss Selangor's Charity Shield match against Johor Darul Ta'zim this Saturday, will recover in time for Malaysia's World Cup qualifiers against Kyrgyzstan and Taiwan in June.
Hamidin revealed that Faisal will have to undergo cosmetic surgery.
And regarding the robbery against Akhyar, Hamidin suggested it might be a targeted assault.
"Both the players are national treasures and their return to form will be arduous," lamented Hamidin.
As Faisal is a key player in the national team, Hamidin said coach Kim Pan Gon is contemplating making adjustments to his squad in view of his enforced absence.