Cklamovski: I can't select 100 players… but the door remains open
KUALA LUMPUR: National coach Peter Cklamovski knew his decision to omit Sri Pahang stars Adam Nor Azlin and Sergio Aguero from the Harimau Malaya training squad would raise eyebrows, especially after their standout performance in the Malaysia Cup final.
The 38-man list for Malaysia's upcoming friendlies against Cape Verde (May 29 and June 3) and Asian Cup qualifier against Vietnam (June 10) has stirred debate among fans, many of whom are baffled by the duo's absence.
But Cklamovski has urged fans to be patient and understand the bigger picture.
"I can't select 100 players. But we've got 100 on our list and we want to develop all of them," he said.
While Adam and Aguero were among Sri Pahang's top performers in their 2-1 defeat to Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT), their omission doesn't mean they're out of the picture.
Cklamovski explained that the selection follows a phased process aimed at managing player fatigue and ensuring peak readiness after a long season.
"This phased approach is unique," said the Australian.
"The players in Phase One have had four weeks off. More will be added in Phase Two. Phase Three is when we finalise the squad."
The absence of other Sri Pahang players has also raised questions, especially amid rumours the club may not feature in the 2025-2026 Super League season — a possible factor in the omissions.
Cklamovski is aware of the chatter around league regulars being left out while fringe names like JDT's Junior Eldstal made the cut.
"I'm watching everything. Eldstal is training hard every day. The level of intensity and hunger is what I look for. A player shouldn't lose that hunger just because he's not selected.
"Some missed this camp. Others missed the last one. But they're all still in contention. I encourage them to stay positive, keep improving, and be ready for the next selection," he said.
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