Fit again Irfan Fandi hopes for career boost after Asean All Stars call up to play against Man United

SINGAPORE – After having to deal with a hip flexor strain and a torn calf muscle this season, Singapore defender Irfan Fandi is happy just to be fit and back on the pitch playing again.

Hence, the 27-year-old was taken aback when he received a call from national team manager Eric Ong last week to notify him that he had been selected for the Asean All-Stars who will take on Manchester United at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on May 28.

The Arsenal fan told The Sunday Times: “I was quite surprised because I haven’t been playing that much this season. So, to know that I’m wanted for the team is nice.

“I’m looking forward to it because it will be a good experience and exposure for the players to put ourselves out there against a top European side and show that Asean football is on the rise and we have quality players here.”

In February, it was reported that the Red Devils will play in Malaysia for the first time in 16 years.

The Asean Football Federation (AFF) then announced that Vietnam coach Kim Sang-sik will lead an Asean All-Stars side against the 20-time English champions three days after they wrap up their underwhelming Premier League campaign against Aston Villa on May 25.

Ruben Amorim’s team, who could visit Asia as Europa League champions as they hold a 3-0 first-leg lead against Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals, will then play in Hong Kong on May 30.

Kim, who led Vietnam to the 2024 Asean Championship, said: “To be selected to lead a team composed of the finest players in South-east Asia for a grand match like this is a great honour for me.

“We are not only representing our countries, but together we will show the