PHC skipper Omar Shakir has supported his club's request for their players not to train with the national team as the business end of the season approaches.

Earlier this week PHC assistant coach Jack Castle confirmed that his players had been asked to abstain from national team training for this week only with crucial games ahead.

Zebras faced Devonshire Cougars last night in the Friendship Trophy semi-final and lock horns with Ireland Rangers on the weekend as they look to secure their first league title for many years.

Shakir feels his coaches are only concerned about what is best for the PHC players.

"I think Jack's comments are very time-sensitive . . . meaning the request is for one week only and comes during a period where there are no scheduled matches for the national squad", said the PHC skipper.

"As far as I'm aware, this is the first request of this nature from PHC's coaches recently, and they have actually encouraged us to train since the first list of names were released".

Shakir also believes that Bermuda is unique in terms of "club versus country".

"Our proximity yields a greater opportunity than most countries for national team players to train together regularly", he explained.

"As a player you always want to play but from a coach's perspective it must be a concern. I understand the importance of both the World Cup and the possibility of a "triple crown" title, as well as the likelihood of success in either.

"However, I see no reason why all parties cannot be reasonably accommodated".

When contacted, Bermuda Football Association (BFA) general secretary David Sabir said: "All situations in reference of players training will be looked at on their own merit."