With forward Phil Younghusband and midfielders Stephan Schröck and Kevin Ingreso still nursing injuries, reinforcements have been called-up to help the battered Philippine Azkals squad in their final 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier game against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on Tuesday, March 29.
Loyola Meralco Sparks’ midfielder James Younghusband is set to make a return to the national team after not making the final cut for the Azkals during the start of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The 29 year old had been a mainstay for the Men’s National Football team but did not make the final roster in favor of “better performing” players according to head coach Thomas Dooley.
Kaya FC’s midfielder Miguel Tanton
Also called-up to serve national team duties are 26 year old Kaya FC midfielder Miguel Tanton and UP Fighting Maroon midfielder Daniel Gadia. Both are making their international debuts.
UP Fighting Maroons’ Daniel Gadia
Finally, after serving their one game suspension in the Azkals’ loss to Uzbekistan, Manny Ott and Misagh Bahadoran will return to the field on Tuesday as well.
The Philippine Azkals are set to face North Korea on Tuesday, March 29 at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium. The Philippines is currently situated at fourth place with two wins, four losses, and one draw with a -5 goal difference.
