Azkals edge closer to securing Patino
The Azkals' attacking stocks look set to be bolstered after it was revealed that Spanish-born striker Javier Patino is close to getting his Philippines passport.
By FOX SPORTS staff
Patino, who is currently on the books of Cordoba, was born in Madrid and has been playing for the Spanish second division side since 2011.
Although he is yet to represent his country of birth at international level, the 24-year-old qualifies to play for Philippines through his mother and now looks destined to represent the Azkals after it emerged on Wednesday that he had been in Manila to process his passport.
Once Patino is eligible to be called up to Michael Weiss' side, he will bolster an impressive strike force already boasting the likes of Phil Younghusband, Angel Guirado and Denis Wolf.
His impending availability is also particularly timely given the Azkals are looking to qualify for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup in March when they take on Turkmenistan, Cambodia and Brunei on home soil.
Philippines were reportedly notified of Patino through centre-back Juan Luis Guirado, who was also born in Spain, and the striker is looking forward to the prospect of representing his mother's country of birth.
"Juani [Guirado] told me it would be a good experience," he told Philippine Daily Inquirer through an interpreter.
"My mother was very emotional. It's always been her hope that we reconnect with family and relatives who we haven't seen for a long time.
"What I learn in Spain I will try to impart to the team. I didn't imagine [joining the Azkals] last year, but I'm here to help."
Patino will join the Guirado brothers - Juan Luis and Angel - and Carli de Murga as members of the Philippines side with Spanish heritage.