PETALING JAYA: Tan Cheng Hoe has described his appointment as interim national coach as a huge honour, but he knows the hard work begins well before a ball is even kicked.

The 58-year-old Cheng Hoe is expected to struggle to form a team for the AFF Hyundai Cup from July 24-Aug 26 due to players’ club obligations.

With the AFF Hyundai Cup falling outside the FIFA international calendar window, he will have a tough time to convince clubs to release their top players for Malaysia’s campaign.