BERGSON, HIDALGO CAN BECOME NATURALISED PLAYERS – TUNKU MAHKOTA ISMAIL

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 9 (Bernama) -- Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) owner Tunku Mahkota Ismail is of the view that prolific striker Bergson Da Silva can be naturalised to strengthen the national football team, who currently face a tough task of qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup Finals.

The Regent of Johor also believes that JDT winger Manuel Hidalgo, who is on loan with Sri Pahang FC, and Da Silva would be valuable additions to the Harimau Malaya squad.

"The system/philosophy is suitable with the existing players. Be more compact, attack and defend as a unit. Discipline is the key, Insya-Allah, can. Bergson (Da Silva) can be naturalised as a short-term measure after completing five years in Malaysia, Hidalgo too for the long-term, and with other existing players. JDT players are all ready.

"The new (national team) coach and sporting director are compiling data of Malaysian players in the Super League and those abroad. It's not going to be easy. It needs time but it has to start now, including development frameworks for the long term. All the best," Tunku Mahkota Ismail posted on X today.

 His post was in reaction to a post by another user following the draw for the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers (to be held next year), which saw Malaysia being pitted with Vietnam, Nepal and Laos in Group F, with only the group winner advancing to the Finals in Saudi Arabia.

The 33-year Brazil-born Da Silva is labelled as a JDT goal machine, having notched over 120 goals in all competitions since joining the Southern Tigers in 2021.

Meanwhile, 25-year-old Argentine Hidalgo began playing in Malaysia when he joined Sri Pahang in 2021.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) are expected to announce a new structure for the Harimau Malaya squad, including filling the positions of new head coach and sporting director, soon.

-- BERNAMA