Amid speculation that a Japanese coach could be appointed to lead Harimau Malaya, the decision on the national team’s next head coach remains under discussion, with a comprehensive assessment to be conducted before any appointment is finalised.

Youth and Sports Minister Dr Taufiq Johari said discussions would be held with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and all relevant stakeholders to ensure the appointment would deliver the best possible returns for the country’s football.

“We will hold comprehensive discussions with FAM and all the stakeholders involved because the most important thing is to ensure that it delivers the best possible returns for the country.

“We will carry out an overall assessment based on performance, work processes and so on, before making a decision and announcing it,” he told Bernama yesterday.