Metfone C-League champions Phnom Penh Crown have taken internal disciplinary action against four senior players – Sou Yaty, Hong Pheng, Khim Borey and Kouch Sokumpheak – and have suspended the players from first-team activities for the duration of the Hun Sen Cup competition following "a serious breach of club rules”.

“The behaviour of these players during and following the recent tournament visit to China, including their refusal to train with the team, has left the club’s management with no alternative but to take this course of action,” the club said.

Crown did not elaborate on what the players did. The club said: “Phnom Penh Crown Football Club is committed to its core values of respect, honesty, fairness and professionalism, and we expect our players and staff to abide by these guiding principles at all times”.