Phil Younghusband aims to boost Philippine football

He may have retired from football, but former Philippine Azkals superstar Phil Younghusband does not plant to leave behind the sport he has loved since he was three years old.

According to Chino Trinidad's report on "24 Oras" on Thursday, the 32-year-old striker's mission remains: to promote the country's football program.

"There are many things that can be done for Philippine football off the field that can help the sport, whether that be coaching or organization and the structure of the sport or marketing of the sport," he said.

"I feel I can do a lot off the field and that is where I want to go and educate myself and then bring them back to the Philippines and hopefully push football again," Younghusband added.

Aside from giving the country's football program more recognition, the Philippines' leading international scorer is also on a mission to be the best dad he could possibly be.

Younghusband said one of the reasons why he decided to step away from the sport is because he wants to be there for his child 24/7.

"This will be a whole new experience. I am very excited to be a dad," he said.

Younghusband and his wife Margaret Hall announced they are having a baby last December through an Instagram post.

Earlier this month, the couple revealed they are having a boy.

Younghusband has been a member of the Azkals since 2006 and was part of the squad's miracle run in the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup that pushed the sport into mainstream consciousness.

He was also part of the Philippines' historic qualification in the AFC Asian Cup in 2018.

He ended his career as the country's top goal scorer with 52 goals.

Younghusband also holds the record of most appearances for the national team with 108 games. — Ma. Angelica Garcia/BM, GMA News