Malaysia's national team goalkeeping coach Omar Salim has hinted that it's down to Khairul Fahmi Che Mat and Farizal Marlias for a starting berth at this month's AFF Suzuki Cup.
Harimau Malaya take on Syria at Shah Alam Stadium on Wednesday as part of their preparations for the Southeast Asian tournament before playing their final international warm-up match against Vietnam in Hanoi on Sunday.
Goalkeeping mentor Salim said that while head coach Dollah Salleh called up three stoppers -- Khairul Azhan Khalid is the third -- for the preliminary squad, they may take only two to the tournament.
As reported in the New Straits Times, Omar said: "I reasoned with Dollah that naming only two goalkeepers will be too risky for the AFF Cup. I fear injuries and suspensions.
"Dollah has agreed but his priorities could change after the friendly with Vietnam in Hanoi on Nov 16.
"In training, Khairul Fahmi, Farizal and Khairul Azhan have been doing well on both grass and artificial pitches. I don't see them having issues at Jalan Besar Stadium [an artificial pitch venue], as all three have played there before."
Despite naming Khairul Azhan in the squad, Omar reckoned that the Pahang FA stopper is one for the future and should use this tournament to gain quality experience at the regional stage.
"Khairul Fahmi and Farizal each have a good understanding with the defenders." added Omar. "Communication between keepers and defenders is very important. Khairul Azhan has the potential but is still raw."
Malaysia will kick off their Suzuki Cup Group B campaign against Myanmar on Nov. 23 before facing Thailand on Nov. 26, with the final group match against co-hosts Singapore on Nov. 29.