National coach Kim Pan Gon has voiced the need for unity, especially from the fans and media, as he has never experienced so much negativity during his previous jobs.
Although Harimau Malaya recorded positive results in recent friendlies against Brunei (4-0) and Hong Kong (2-0), there has been plenty of nitpicking.
Pan Gon, a former Hong Kong coach, said during his previous jobs in other countries, people always had undivided support for their national teams, win or lose.
But he noticed that it is a different ball game in Malaysia.
Defender Dominic Tan yesterday stressed on what Pan Gon has offered to the players since he was appointed national coach in January.
He said Pan Gon has passion and believes this team can go far.
"I honestly feel he believes in us. Everyone says either good or bad stuff about the team.
"However, as a team, we must stick together," said the 25-year-old before the national team's training session in Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya yesterday.
"Only we know what we can do or provide to the national team. The coach always reminds us to focus on the positives. He does not touch on other matters, including social media."
Dominic, who plays for Sabah, claimed Pan Gon's style has helped the players bond and have a winning mentality.
"It is good to have that kind of understanding. It makes everyone feels part of the team. Pan Gon has definitely done that for everybody.
"We have a good relationship with each other, and as a result, we are working hard to get the results,"
"I think we have a solid squad with depth. However, we still have to show it on the field at the Asian Cup qualifiers.
"We will do our best to get the results," he added.
Malaysia will open their Group E campaign of the qualifiers against Turkmenistan on Wednesday at National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Bahrain and Bangladesh make up the group.