SHAH ALAM, July 5 — The first day of centralised training for the National Under-22 (U-22) squad today turned out to be a shameful episode for national coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee as only six of the 26 players called up for National duty reported for training.

The six were Muhammad Syahmi Safari, Adam Nor Azlin from Selangor; Irfan Zakaria from Kuala Lumpur; Amierul Hakimi Awang (Terengganu), Danial Amier Norhisham (Felda United) and Ahmad Khairil Anuar Zamri (Perak).

National U-22 team manager Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi however, put up a brave front by claiming most of the players would report for training by July 12, except for players from Pahang and Penang who would be released by their respective teams before July 17.

Mohd Yusoff said a series of discussions were held and teams communicated by phone to seek their cooperation for the release of players from their respective teams and good progress had been achieved.

"Only two teams have not given their confirmation, namely Pahang and Penang. I have spoken to Tengku Muda Pahang (Tengku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ahmad Shah) and there was a positive sign. There was also progress in my conversation with the Penang Football Association (FAP) president Zairil Khir Johari,” he told reporters here today.

Mohd Yusoff agreed that the coach (Kim Swee) would have a major situation in his hands when players do not report at the same time.

"We also understand the plight of the teams since the league is at a crucial stage while the Malaysia Cup games are also being played. Some teams have a number of players in the first 11,” he said.

Mohd Yusoff hinted that the International friendly scheduled on July 13, between the Malaysian Under-22 squad which is preparing for the SEA Games and the Myanmar Under-22 squad at the Shah Alam Stadium could be held a day later since most of the players are only expected to report for training on July 12.

"The delay will give the coach some time to work with the players,” he said. — Bernama