SEA GAMES 2011: OTT OUT OF PHILIPPINES SQUAD

MANILA (30 Oct 2011) – The Philippines team preparation for the SEA Games next week suffered a major blow with the news that they will have to launch their campaign without the inspiration of midfielder Manny Ott.

The Filis, aiming to win a place in the podium for the first time ever, are placed in the easier Group B of the event against 2009 runners-up Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Brunei and Timor Leste.

But this week, Ott made the announcement that he will not be able to see action in Jakarta as he will be busy looking for a new club in Germany.

Ott is currently playing for FC Ingolstadt II, which plays in the fourth division in Germany.

“I’m searching for another club here in Germany, so I have to stay and play for my team,” Ott was quoted this week. “My heart is beating for the Philippines. I’m very, very sad, but I have to think about my future.”

Ott had made seven appearances for the senior team including being part of the Philippines appearance in the second qualifying round of the FIFA World Cup 2014.

In Jakarta, the Filis will open their campaign with a tough match against Vietnam on 3 November 2011 at the Stadion Gelora Utama Bung Karno.
26^th SEA GAMES

Group B fixtures