Palami gives Etheridge a pass: He has to secure Cardiff position, too

Philippine Azkals manager Dan Palami sees no problem with goalkeeper Neil Etheridge making himself available for only one match in the AFC Asian Cup in January in the United Arab Emirates.

While the Azkals are making history with their first appearance in the continental showpiece event, Etheridge’s club, Cardiff City, is also battling to keep its position in the Premier League next season.

And Palami said he would support Etheridge if he decides to limit his Asian Cup stint.

“I think at this point in time nobody can question his commitment to the national team,” said Palami. “But he also has to secure his position with Cardiff City, which is something that he has worked very hard for over the last few years.”

While the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) can trigger a release from Cardiff for Etheridge for the duration of the Asian Cup, PFF president Mariano Araneta felt it would be fair to make the goalkeeper decide for himself on his availability.

“We know Neil’s importance to Cardiff, so he’ll play in the first [Azkals’] game and go back if he wants to,” Araneta said.