PETALING JAYA, Jan 2 — National shuttler Lee Chong Wei said new men’s singles coach Indra Wijaya, who is expected to start his stint at BA of Malaysia (BAM) next month, is the best man for the job.

“Actually, he’s one of my choices. All of us including the coaches have given ideas but it was up to BAM to pick and accept the candidate,” said the former world No 1.

“Indra is definitely the right choice, not just for me but the whole team.”

Last month, Lee requested two coaches be assigned to him and the team so as to maintain his end-of-season momentum, which saw him win the French, China and Hong Kong Opens to finish the year as world No 5.

“When I go abroad to compete, I observe the coaches as well,” he said.

“Indra was with South Korea and they’re catching up (to us) especially in men’s and women’s singles. It shows his worth.”

Lee said he needs coaches Hendrawan and Tey Seu Bock to travel with him to tournaments for five to eight months preparation for the Rio Olympics and Indra can stay back and “look after” the younger players.

BAM expect to have Indra settled into his new role by next month after the Indonesian’s contract with the Korean BA expires.

Indra will specifically mentor youngsters Iskandar Zulkarnain, Goh Soon Huat, Soong Joon Ven, Soo Teck Zhi, Chong Yee Han, Cheam June Wei and R. Satheishtharan. Hendrawan and Tey will solely focus on Lee’s Olympics programme.

Indra had a decorated playing career for Indonesia between 1995 and 2005.

He is also the brother of 2000 Sydney Olympics gold medallist Candra Wijaya and was part of the squad who won the Thomas Cup in 1996 and 1998.

In his position with the Korean BA, Indra worked closely with the likes of Son Wan-ho, Lee Dong-keun and Jeon Hyeok-jin with 20-year-old Jeon claiming victory at the Macau Open in November.

Lee also stressed having a new coach was in the best interest of badminton.

“The nation can’t always pin hopes on me. I might only be around for another year after the Olympics.

“It’s important for us to seek potential players soon and for that we need good coaches.”

Lee believes Indra can help Hendrawan and Tey groom young players.