Kuala lumpur: Australian Peter Cklamovski is adamant that he won’t allow speculation that his days as the national football head coach are numbered to distract him from the task at hand. The 47-year-old said he is not the least bothered by the speculation, which has gone viral on social media.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Cklamovski expressed that the rumors were unexpected but are part and parcel of football. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the team’s preparations and securing a victory in their upcoming match. Cklamovski stated that his main concern is ensuring the team finishes the year at the top of the standings and continues to build confidence in the squad.

Malaysia is set to face Nepal in their fifth Group F match in the 2027 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup Qualifiers at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. Cklamovski is determined for his team to secure full points from this encounter. Previously, Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) acting president Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi dismissed the news about Cklamovski’s future as mere speculation.

Cklamovski is confident in his team’s abilities, having previously defeated Nepal 2-0 in their opening group match in March. He has urged his players to deliver their best performance and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Despite Nepal’s new manager, Hari Khadka, and their potential to disrupt Malaysia’s game, Cklamovski stressed the importance of controlling the match.

Currently, Malaysia leads Group F with 12 points, followed by Vietnam with nine points, Laos with three points, and Nepal, who have yet to secure any points after four losses.