PETALING JAYA: Faisal Halim was overcome by emotion when he visited his teammates on the first day of national training today at Wisma FAM.
Faisal, who has recovered from serious injuries from an acid attack by an unknown assailant four months ago, turned up to support his 25 national teammates training for the Merdeka Tournament.
"I feel a deep sadness not being able to be with the national team.
"This is where I have always fought for my place alongside my teammates and coach.
"I came here today as a guest to watch my teammates train. I'm confident it won't be long before I'm back on the field myself.
"I hope everyone will keep me in their prayers... I can't wait to return," said Faisal.
"Even when I was bedridden during the qualifiers, I was watching and cheering for them (the national team). The support I've received has been incredible, and I'm eager to get back to normal soon," said Faisal.
The last time Faisal saw international action was in the 2027 World Cup/2026 Asian Cup qualifier against Oman in March.