Kuala lumpur: Harimau Malaya have suffered a setback ahead of the September international window after naturalised midfielder Hector Havel was ruled out due to a heel injury. Head coach Peter Cklamovski confirmed the development, saying the 29-year-old had to be sidelined following medical advice.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Cklamovski stated, “Hector has been ruled out with a minor issue with his foot. His situation is not ideal for him, so our medical team made a decision for him to recover at his club,” during a press conference today. Hector’s absence presents an opportunity for Johor Darul Ta’zim midfielder Nathaniel Shio Hong Wan, who was previously on the standby list.

Cklamovski noted that the last training camp was his first time working with Hong, praising his strong mentality and potential. “He’s got the talent, he’s got the attributes to be a good player, so I’m looking forward to him connecting with a national team programme,” he said.

The Australian coach also mentioned that all players reported for duty today, except for striker Rodrigo Holgado and defender Gabriel Palmero. Rodrigo is expected to join the squad on Wednesday, just a day before Malaysia faces Singapore in an international ‘A’ friendly, while Gabriel is scheduled to arrive tomorrow.