Former Buriram and Muangthong United manager Scott Cooper is preparing for his managerial debut in charge of the Philippines national team tonight, as they prepare to take on Bahrain.
This game comes in the middle of an extended training camp in the Middle East, designed by Scott Cooper and the Philippines football association to give the new coach a chance to immerse himself with the national team and build a strong relationship with the players.
Cooper was able to call upon many key players, such as Cardiff City’s Neil Etheridge, who has made a major impact in the Premier League this season.
However, due to the Thai League’s decision to play on despite the international break, Buriram United’s Javier Patino and Bangkok United’s Michael Falkesgaard were unable to join the Azkals on the training camp.
The new coach has two major tournaments to prepare for over the horizon, which include the AFF Suzuki Cup in November and the 2019 AFC Championships in January. Bahrain, who have also qualified for the continental competition, provide a good benchmark by which the Philippines can judge their progress.