KUALA LUMPUR: As the second transfer window closes tomorrow, stricken Kedah are in no position to sign any players.
Facing a transfer ban over failure to pay salaries to players, their ability to compete in the M-League is in question.
Though their team have been weakened by the departures of disillusioned players, Kedah won't be able to register new players unless they resolve the outstanding salary arrears,
Malaysian Football League CEO Giorgio Pompili Rossi said Kedah have been under a transfer ban for over a month, and they are granted a 30-day grace period to address their salary issues.
"If they wish to sign new players, they must settle their debts before Sept 22," said Rossi.
The crisis in Kedah caused Habib Haroon, Kalamullah Al-Hafiz Mat Rowi and Fikri Che Soh to leave the team.
Kedah players boycotted training due to unpaid salaries, resulting in their Under-23 team fielded against KL City in a Super League match recently. Kedah lost 5-0, no surprise.
However, the "striking" players returned to the first team last night at Darul Aman Stadium for a league match against Sri Pahang FC, and Kedah managed to draw 2-2.
The Red Eagles scored through Halim Saari (58th minute) and Sukhrob Nurolloev (64th) while Pahang responded through Sergio Aguero (52nd) and Kpah Sherman (79th).
Kedah coach Nafuzi Zain expressed pride in his players' performance despite the team's bad situation.
"I'm incredibly proud of them for taking the field while facing numerous issues. Their professionalism and love for the club shine through, even in tough times.
"Our inability to register new players stems from unresolved salary issues, and we're feeling its impact on our performance."
Kedah languish in 10th place in the league after 10 matches with nine points from three wins and three draws.