By Farah Azharie
KUALA LUMPUR: Football legend Khalid Ali differs with FAM in the call-up of new faces for national training for the Asian Cup qualifiers.
Instead, he felt that two old Tigers - Safee Sali and Safiq Rahim - should be recalled to add steel to the national team.
The former midfielder pointed out that Safee and Safiq are still fit and can add depth to the Harimau Malaya squad for the third round of the Asian Cup qualifiers
in February next year.
Coach Tan Cheng Hoe had said he plans to try out new faces during national training on Oct 4-12.
"There may be good young players around but we need to understand that at international level, it is not about old or young, but as long as they can handle the responsibility," said Khalid.
"Some of the youngsters have not reached international level (in their game). Some players may be older, but if they can still play at international level, then why not choose them?
"We cannot keep running programmes to teach youngsters who are new to the team. We need to choose those who can represent Malaysia because we don't have time to train. Training should be done at club level.
"Safee and Safiq can still contribute, so why not use them? They are ready physically and have the fitness for international level."
Safee, 37, has made a total of 132 appearances (senior and youth level) for Malaysia, scoring 47 goals. The striker currently plays for PJ City in the Super League.
Safiq, 34, has made 106 appearances (senior and youth level), scoring 31 goals. The midfielder currently plays for Johor Darul Ta'zim.
The national team will play in the AFF Cup on Dec 5-Jan 1, before going for the Asian Cup qualifiers.