by Olmin Leyba (The Philippine Star)
MANILA, Philippines – Phil and James Younghusband left the Azkals’ training camp in the Middle East ahead of the team, leaving a void in Phl XI’s forward and right midfielder spots when they took on Qantas Under-23 late last night in Dubai.
The Younghusbands-less Azkals were slated to play the Olyroos last night in Dubai, the last of their three-game slate in the 10-day camp. They lost to Uzbekistan’s Olympic side in a friendly in Dubai, 0-3, but got back with a 3-1 win over Qatari club Al Ahli over in Doha.
With the team’s permission, the popular brothers went back to Manila to attend to what they claimed were prior commitments. It wasn’t immediately known whether said commitments were related to their duties with the Loyola Meralco Sparks, product endorsements or The Younghusbands Football Academy and other business matters.
“Came home to Manila to settle some commitments we have which could not be moved to a different date,” James, who wore the captain’s armband in the Azkals’ first two matches in the Gulf, said on Twitter.
“Please understand that we are not only players for our country and club but also fathers to our sister,” added James. The brothers serve as guardians to their 10-year-old sister Keri.
The Younghusbands have the blessing of management, though.
“They gave us advanced notice that they would have commitments (this week) and even before the team left for the Middle East, they’ve already asked that they be allowed to come home early,” said Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta.
The brothers reiterated their commitment to flag and country.
“We are committed to country, club, TYFA and most especially family,” James twitted. “Thank you so much to the management of both the National team and our Club team for understanding and the support.”
Source: The Philippine Star
