Akhyar hopes to be in Figueroa’s good books for PKNS FA Cup tie

High spirits: JDT winger Akhyar Rashid (right) is hoping to start the FA Cup match against PKNS at the Larkin Stadium today.    

PETALING JAYA: Mercurial winger Akhyar Rashid is itching to be in the thick of the action.

His manager Luciano Figueroa has said that he will rotate his players as Johor Darul Ta’zim’s schedule is tight this season.

And the Kedahan is keeping his fingers crossed that he will be in the starting line-up for the FA Cup third-round tie against PKNS at the Larkin Stadium today.

“God willing, I will fight for a starting spot. We are due to play many games this month so I hope my chance will come tomorrow (today),” said the national Under-23 player.

“If I’m in the first 11, for sure I will make my presence felt.”

Akhyar, who has been mostly used as a substitute in the league and the AFC Champions League, is not dampened by the lack of playing time.

“My motivation is always good. The coach knows what’s best. If used as a sub, in a way it shows that he believes I can change the game with my inclusion.”

Figueroa said he has to rotate because they have important matches coming up.

“We will be playing PKNS twice this week – in the FA Cup and Super League. For Cup matches, we will rotate but league games we will stick with the best 11 because we want the three points,” said the Argentinian.

“For me, whoever is selected are the best players for that match.”

For today’s match, Natxo Insa and Leandro Velasquez will not be available due to injury.