KUALA LUMPUR: National caretaker coach Pau Marti Vicente faces a potential selection headache for the AFF Cup (Dec 8-Jan 5), as some clubs may be reluctant to release their players due to overlapping commitments.
The AFF Cup falls outside the FIFA international calendar, meaning clubs are not obliged to release players for the tournament.
The situation is particularly tricky for Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Selangor, as both are also involved in Asian club competitions — the Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE) and Asian Champions League 2 (ACL2), respectively.
Malaysia will kick off their AFF Cup Group A campaign against Cambodia in Phnom Penh on Dec 8.
The group also features defending champions Thailand, Singapore and Timor Leste.
However, the national team's opener coincides with JDT's Super League clash against KL City, while Selangor face Negri Sembilan the following day.
Both JDT and Selangor will also require their top players for their Asian club campaigns, with JDT aiming for progression in the ACLE and Selangor eyeing the next stage of the ACL2.
Selangor technical committee chairman Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar hinted at the club's reluctance to release players.
"Looking at the schedule, it seems unlikely we will release players for the AFF Cup. Vicente will want our best players, but they are crucial to our plans," said Shahril.
Selangor's Harith Haiqal Adam Afkar, Mukhairi Ajmal Mahadi, Azim Al Amin Kamaruddin and Nooa Laine have featured for Harimau Malaya this year.
Meanwhile, Kuching City coach Aidil Sharin Sahak revealed that three of his players are on Vicente's list, but he is willing to release only two. However, he declined to name the players.
Perak coach Yusri Che Lah, on the other hand, expressed full support for national call-ups.
"Representing the national team is a chance for players to grow. I've always supported this," said Yusri.
Kelantan Darul Naim assistant coach Rezal Zambery Yahya echoed this sentiment, confirming the release of Fazrul Amir Zaman if called up.
"I've discussed this with the management, and they've agreed. It's an important step in his career, and what he gains from the national team will also benefit the club," said Rezal.
The AFF Cup will be Vicente's first major test since taking over Harimau Malaya mid-year.
It will also be an audition for Vicente to convince the FA of Malaysia (FAM) to offer him a full-time contract.
Each team can register 23 players for the AFF Cup.