Rob Gier. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
The Philippines will miss the services of defender Rob Gier when it battles Uzbekistan in a crucial World Cup Qualifying clash on Sept. 8 at Philippine Sports Stadium.
One of the acknowledged leaders in the national team, the 34-year-old Gier is set to undergo surgery on his knee which he injured in the match against Bahrain last June 11. The Azkals won the match, 2-1, with Gier playing 84 minutes in what was another commanding performance from one of the most reliable players in the squad.
“Unfortunately, I am not going to be available for the next World Cup Qualifier against Uzbekistan,” Gier announced on his social media accounts. “The knee that I injured against Bahrain needs surgery so this will keep me out of action for awhile. Gutted is an understatement but I’ll be back soon enough.”
Gier, who took over the role as skipper when Chieffy Caligdong retired, has played for the Azkals since the AFC Challenge Cup in 2009. He already has 63 appearances for the Azkals.