KUALA LUMPUR (APRIL 20, 2010): Former national champion Datuk Misbun Sidek has asked the Thomas Cup players to be united as they prepare for the premier badminton tournament next month.

Misbun, who coached Datuk Lee Chong Wei to the All-England title earlier this year, said even Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Mohd Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak has asked him to help Malaysia regain the prestigious trophy they last won in 1992.

“When Chong Wei and I met the Prime Minister, he congratulated us on winning the All-England title, but reminded us that winning the Thomas Cup is even more important,” said Misbun.

“The Thomas Cup means so much to every Malaysian and I hope our boys can deliver. We surprised everyone when we won the title in 1992 and now we will once again be the underdogs, despite having home ground advantage. Who knows, maybe we can spring a surprise in 2010 as well.”

Misbun added one reason for Malaysia’s success in 1992 was the unity which bound the team together.

“I still remember 1992 as if it was yesterday. The players were very united and were focus on one common goal – bringing back the Thomas Cup. I hope the 2010 squad will have the same feelings,” said the former national chief coach.

“We will be going away for a motivational camp this weekend. I believe this will help unite the players ahead of our challenge. We have a few more days before we name our squad and by then, everything should be in place.”