KUALA LUMPUR: Sergio Aguero and Lee Tuck never expected this - being on national duty for their adopted country during Christmas.
That is exactly what the Argentine-born Aguero and English-born Tuck are doing - as naturalised players for Malaysia in the ongoing AFF Cup in Hanoi, Vietnam.
The two frontmen will lead Malaysia's attack against hosts Vietnam on Tuesday.
Tuck, who parted company with the Pahang Super League team this season, said: "England is eight hours behind, so after I landed, it's the perfect time for a video call, to watch my kids open their presents.
"It's the first time I'll be without my family. It's pretty hard but I think they are proud of what I'm doing, which will be a legacy for the family. I'm willing to sacrifice this special time for a once in a lifetime opportunity to represent Malaysia."
Meanwhile, Pahang striker Aguero is glowing like a Christmas tree with joy, having scored his first international goal for Malaysia (in the 5-0 win over Laos).
However, Aguero admitted he misses his children, aged three and two months.
"I miss them very much, they are in Kuantan. But it's such a special thing to play for Malaysia," he said.