KUALA LUMPUR — Former Malaysian footballer Hairuddin Omar, popularly known as Hai-O among local football fans, has denied rumours circulating online about him potentially replacing E. Elavarasan as the new head coach of the national under-23 football team.
Following Harimau Muda’s 1-0 defeat to Thailand in their 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualification on Tuesday, the Harimau Muda coach received severe criticism from local fans, who associated Hairuddin with taking over the reins of the job.
However, Hairuddin has set the record straight, stating that he has no plans to take over the hot seat.
“I want to clarify that I have no intention of assuming that position.
“I hold the utmost respect for Coach Elavarasan and the remarkable job he’s done with the U-23 team.
“Leading Harimau Muda to the 2024 AFC Asian Cup is a testament to his coaching abilities, and I’m truly proud of what he’s achieved,” he told Scoop when contacted.
Hairuddin, who has scored a total of 76 goals during his time at Terengganu, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, and Kelantan, stated that he will always continue to support the 61-year-old’s leadership despite the criticisms directed at him by local fans.
“Our fans need to calm down and consider the potential of the squad.
“Our squad is evolving, and it will take some time for us to reach the level of top footballing nations.
“The team is on the right track, and I believe the coach is the right person to guide our national under-23 team to even greater success in the future.
“I am more than happy to offer any assistance or support he may need to achieve that,” he added.
Hairuddin is currently the head coach of Terengganu FC II and is currently in fourth place in the Malaysia Premier League with 33 points. — September 15, 2023