Kuala lumpur: Harimau Malaya face a major setback ahead of their 2026 ASEAN Cup clash against Thailand on Saturday after midfielder Endrick Dos Santos suffered a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, interim Harimau Malaya head coach Tan Cheng Hoe said MRI results confirmed the injury, forcing the player to be sidelined temporarily to focus on his recovery. "At the moment, all the players are in the best condition. The only concern is Endrick. Last night, the doctor conducted an MRI scan and found that he has an MCL injury and needs to rest. This is not good news for the team. It is certainly a loss because Endrick is a senior and experienced player who helps guide the squad," he told reporters at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) shortly before the team's departure for Bangkok today.

Meanwhile, Cheng Hoe said he and his coaching staff have accepted the setback and are now looking for the best solution to fill the void left by the 34-year-old midfielder. Although he will not be available for selection, Cheng Hoe said the naturalised player would still travel with the squad to Bangkok to help maintain the team's strong sense of unity.

"Endrick also wants to be with the team. His support is important for the younger players as they prepare for the upcoming match," he said.