Keevan must fight

02/07/2003

K. KEEVAN Raj reported for national training yesterday and must fight for
his spot in the squad for the Champions Challenge in Randburg, South
Africa on July 19-27.
Chief coach Paul Lissek, while happy with the midfielder's return, said
there is no guarantee that Keevan will be in the Challenge squad.
"I will have to discuss with the team management first and also see if
he has been keeping himself fit before making a decision," said Lissek.
Keevan last played in the Azlan Shan Cup in March and then skipped the
Tour of Europe in May because of studies.
The 24-year-old, studying for a double degree in marketing and economics
at Metropolitan College, said he has finished his course and is ready to
fight his way back into the team.
"Although I have just reported for training I have been keeping myself
fit by playing for Sapura in the Malaysia Hockey League," said Keevan.
While Keevan's return was good news, the national team is still plagued
with injuries and withdrawals.
Lissek called up 26 players for training a week ago, but has yet to have
all of them in a session.
Defender Megat Azrafiq pulled out because of a torn ligament, while
Sallehin Ghani reported for work with Telekom yesterday and did not turn
up for training.
Midfielder Shaiful Azli injured his back during training yesterday while
forward Ismail Abu did not attend because his father is ill.
And with defender Madzli Ikmar still recovering from a fractured finger,
Lissek will have a tough time naming the squad.
Meanwhile, China arrived in Kuala Lumpur yesterday and will play four
Test matches against the national side starting tomorrow.
China Tests - Today: Tun Razak Stadium; Friday: Kuala Lumpur Hockey
Stadium; Sunday: Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium; Monday: Tun Razak Stadium.
* Note: All matches start at 6pm.
(END)