Manila, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals’ title bid in the AFF Suzuki Cup suffered a major blow after Fil-German midfielder Stephan Schrock shocked the team with his resignation over the weekend.
Schrock informed Azkals coach Thomas Dooley and the management of his decision to resign from his national duties on Sunday night.
“Dooley and team manager Dan Palami regret the decision of Schrock but they accept and respect his desire to pursue new challenges,” said the Azkals’ official statement released to media.
The 27-year old Schrock has been recently picked up by SPVgg Greuther Feuerth in the German second division. He is one of the best and most popular players of the national team since joining in 2011. He wound up his national tour of duty with three goals in 17 caps.
“They, likewise, express their deep gratitude for Schrock’s commitment to the Azkals and his contribution to the team and raising football awareness in the country,” the statement added.
Schrock’s resignation came as a shock after he posted on his Instagram account last June that he will only take a break and will be back soon following the Azkals’ silver medal run in the AFC Challenge Cup.
The promised 'break' suddenly turned into resignation that rocked the team as it is preparing to defend the Philippine Peace Cup title as part of their build up for the AFF Suzuki Cup later this year.
Schrock was called up as part of the 34-man pool for the Peace Cup training camp. Now, somebody has to fill in his big shoes.