Singapore striker Khairul Amri says the Suzuki Cup is his driving force, and he's focused on trying to win an unprecedented fourth AFF title this year, despite a troubled season with Garena Young Lions.
The 31-year-old is the senior player and captain of a Young Lions' team rooted to the bottom of the S.League table after only two wins in 21 matches in 2016.
Even so, Amri is determined to end an injury-interrupted year on a high by leading the line for Singapore, starting with November's group stage in Philippines. He will take on greater responsibility, given the absence of fellow forward Fazrul Nawaz due to a season-ending knee operation.
"It has not been a good year. My season has been interrupted by injuries, but I feel like slowly, I'm coming back," the 31-year-old told The New Paper.
"The Suzuki Cup is, of course, a driving force for me. The national set-up feels great and I want to continue to be part of that -- not only to be there, but also to be fit, sharp and ready for the team."
Amri's goals on the big occasions helped Singapore win AFF titles in 2005, 2007 and 2012. In all, he's scored 32 times in 106 internationals, dating back to 2004 when he was only 19 years old.
But he admits that it has been difficult playing for a club team who are regularly on the end of heavy losses. They were beaten 2-0 by Hougang United in their latest S.League match on Friday night.
"I get angry, and I'm very vocal on the pitch. I can't lie -- I want to send a message to the boys that we can be better," he said.
"Training with the Young Lions has been great, but translating what goes on in training to the match hasn't been good ... it takes time. It's been tough, but we have to give time to these boys."
This is Amri's second stint with the Young Lions, having worn their colours between 2004-08 when he scored an impressive 54 goals in 114 games.
His former LionsXII teammate Firdaus Kasman, 28, is the other senior player in the squad. The vice-captain made his S.League debut almost a decade ago, and has earned six Singapore caps.