Far Eastern University head coach Olsen Racela is hoping for the return of explosive guard Cholo Anonuevo, who is nursing a right mid-foot injury.
Racela admitted that the absence of the 6-foot-4 Anonuevo has taken a toll on the Tamaraws lineup, prompting them to switch to a small ball rotation in most of their games.
"Malaking impact ‘yong injury ni Cholo sa amin,” said the long-time FEU coach. "Si Cholo kasi can play in multiple positions and sa pagkawala ni Cholo, lumiit talaga ‘yong lineup namin.
"With Cholo there masosolusyunan naming ‘yong height disparity but other than that ang daming nabibigay ni Cholo na tangibles na ‘di lumabas sa stat sheet pero malaking bagay sa amin."
The former Baby Tamaraw standout was still seen at the sidelines with a knee walker and Racela is keeping his fingers crossed for his speedy recovery.
The 20-year-old Anonuevo, who trained in the United States for a year under the guidance of East West Private, the same management handling Kai Sotto, only played once in UAAP Season 84 so far.
He has yet to show his best form after posting four points and three rebounds in nine minutes and 34 seconds of play in FEU’s 76-51 win against University of Santo Tomas last March 26.
Sans Anonuevo, the likes RJ Abarrientos, Ljay Gonzales, and Xyrus Torres, who were his teammates in the junior's division, stepped up as the Tamaraws improved to a 3-3 record.