Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — With 42 goals for the Philippines, Phil Younghusband is a perennial scoring threat that Azkals opponents watch out for.
This time around, though, the team’s roster allows him to take a step away from the forward line.
“I think coach wants me to play a bit of a deeper role,” said Younghusband, whose team plays Bahrain on June 11 at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bulacan for their first fixture in the World Cup Qualifying round.
“Maybe I’ll play not as far forward as I usually do.”
Related: Younghusband-Patiño a deadly combo; Schrock brings energy to Azkals
There are now more players in the fold who can attract the attention of opposing defenders, including Global FC’s Mark Hartmann, Ceres FC’s Patrick Reichelt, and Henan Jianye FC’s Javier Patino.
“It’s great having options like Javier and Mark or Patrick Reichelt that you can give them the ball and they can create something on themselves,” said Younghusband.
Younghusbamd now doesn’t have to carry the offensive load knowing his teammates can contribute as well.
“Maybe I felt a bit of pressure trying to score goals, but now we have a lot of quality on the field that can do it even without myself,” he said.
Related: We’re ready and raring to go, says Azkals captain Gier
