PETALING JAYA: National captain Safiq Rahim (pic) has nothing to prove to his naysayers when Malaysia take on Yemen in the Asian Cup Group D qualifying match at the Shah Alam Stadium on March 22.

Safiq, who has been under heavy fire for his poor performance with Johor Darul Takzim, said he is only considering constructive criticism while letting the negative ones fall on deaf ears.

“I have nothing to prove to them. I know that my performance has dropped a bit in recent times but I am working towards regaining my form on the field.

“Every time I’m on the field, I try to give my best and I believe if I continue working hard, people will eventually see it,” said Safiq.

Safiq missed the first Group D match against Qatar due to suspension.

Malaysia lost 2-0 in the match in Doha.

National coach Datuk K. Rajagopal looks set to tinker his line-up against Yemen by calling up Kelantan midfielder Mohd Badhri Radzi and putting regular midfielders Amar Rohidan and S. Kunalan on standby.

Malaysia will play a warm-up match against Saudi Arabia on Sunday at the Shah Alam Stadium.

Related posts:

• Skipper Safiq is committed to Selangor’s cause as Johor wait in the wings
• Skipper Safiq out to make amends in Singapore match
• Hamidin slams Johor boss Fandi for disclosing interest in Safiq
• Johor target Selangor skipper Safiq
• Safiq gets the chance to impresss Cardiff City