HANOI: Striker Zaquan Adha Radzak believes Tan Cheng Hoe is still the right person for the national team coaching job despite the failure to win the AFF Cup on Saturday.
The 31-year-old captain said Cheng Hoe possesses the right character and also stood to his coaching philosophy although he was criticised on several occasions during the competition.
“People might say a captain is supposed to support and praise his head coach but frankly Cheng Hoe is the right person for the job.
“Anyone that comes here, including a World Cup winning coach, will not succeed if he does not know how to communicate with his players.
“Cheng Hoe has his own philosophy and unique character. Many criticised him for his tactics and also the decision to appoint me as the captain.
“Our coach has a calm persona but is strong hearted. He did not listen to critics and stood to his ground on several decisions.
“For the record, he knew what was right and wrong for the team.
“He reminded us on several occasions to be honest and sincere during the tournament. I believe he should continue with the national team,” said Zaquan after the match on Saturday.
Cheng Hoe’s future with the national team is in question as his contract expires at the end of this month. He was appointed as Portuguese Nelo Vingada’s replacement last December.
On Saturday’s defeat, Zaquan admitted that he was disappointed for not winning the trophy.
“I am upset but also proud with the team’s achievement of reaching the final after a string of disappointments since last year.
“We were criticised for tactics, formations and selection of players, but we managed to go far.
“For the record, everyone played a role in the AFF Cup.
“Now, we want to see who are really our fans. Those who are passionate will support us no matter how we do in tournaments.
“Some only support us when we win, but criticise when we fail,” he added.