PHNOM PENH (17 Oct 2016) – Experienced striker Khuon Laboravy is battling to regain his fitness and that’s what’s keeping Cambodian coach Lee Tae Hoon from fielding the once-regular ace in the starting line-up.
And that’s includes whether the 28-year-old will be fielded in the crucial second match against Brunei tomorrow.
Cambodia won their opening match against Laos and now need a second win to enhance their chances of advancing to the final rounds next month.
Although not the best of options, Tae Hoon would still rather have his services as a reserve than not at all, just as he did in the opening match.
“Many Cambodian fans are wondering why he is not starting but the fact is that he’s not in good condition now. He started training after the Thai game but at this stage, he’s not there yet,” moaned Tae Hoon.
But Tae Hoon also knows that while Laboravy is not fully fit, he also makes for a great substitute striker and could help turn a game around.
The coach explained that if the team failed to get in the goals, he would bring in Laboravy as a replacement. “Now it’s important we have options. If he is ok, he will play. He also needs to reduce his weight.”
After tomorrow’s game, Cambodia will have one last tie against Timor Leste to determine the final positions in the group. Only one team from the qualifying competition will move to the final round.
