MANILA, Philippines – Filipino-British player Chris Greatwich still won't be able to join the Philippine Azkals in their games against Sri Lanka in the first round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Greatwich, who played a major role in the Philippine Azkals' successful stint in the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup last December, said he also won't be able to join the Azkals' training camp in Germany.
"With it being mid-season here in the US and my playing and work commitments, the dates given weren't feasible so I reluctantly declined the opportunity to join the team," he said through his Twitter account.
Greatwich is currently working as the head coach of the Morris County Colonials U20s (Under 20) team in the US Youth Premier Soccer League.
Greatwich said he already asked Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss to allow him to join the team later.
Weiss, however, deemed it important for Greatwich to at least participate in their German training camp.
"He felt it was important that I integrate with what is a new squad and had to be in Germany. While I was disappointed with this decision, I understood his reasons and have to accept it as he is the coach," said Greatwich.
Greatwich is best remembered for scoring crucial goals for the Azkals in their Suzuki Cup games against football powerhouses Singapore and Vietnam.
He remains hopeful that he can rejoin his team in their future games.
"Hopefully it won't be too long before I don the National Team jersey again," said Greatwich.
"I wish the guys every success and I will be our biggest supporter in the forthcoming games."
The away-game between the Philippine Azkals and the Sri Lankans will take place in Colombo on June 29.
The home game will take place 4 days later at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
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