Azkals may get Schrock for Laos, Singapore friendlies

The Philippine men’s national football team may get a boost for their friendly matches against Singapore and Laos as Filipino-German midfielder Stephan Schrock is available for both games.

Schrock made his debut for Bundesliga side Hoffenheim last September 1, but was sent off after receiving a red card at the 74th minute. Hoffenheim lost 0-4 against Eintracht Frankfurt.

Azkals team manager Dan Palami said it was a “fortunate” development for the Philippine Azkals, who are playing three friendly matches as part of their preparation for the AFF Suzuki Cup later this year.

Schrock will not be available for the team’s friendly against Cambodia on Wednesday, but he may be there for their game against Singapore on Friday and against Laos on September 10.

“Fortunately we have Schrock coming in for the Singapore and Laos games,” Palami said. “I hope he is able to buy a ticket.”

“He made his debut for Hoffenheim and he got a red card. I’d like to think he might have done it on purpose para makapunta siya dito,” Palami joked.

He explained that Hoffenheim allowed Schrock to join the Azkals since he will not be able to play on their next game on account of his red card anyway.

“He always wants to play for the Philippines,” Palami said of Schrock. “Kahit kailan, kapag sinabi mo na may game, hahanap at hahanap siya ng paraan na payagan ng club.” – With a report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News.