Thai Coach Reveals Plan to Compete for AFF Cup Title with Vietnam Team

Coach Anthony Hudson revealed that the Thai National Team could incorporate four mixed-heritage players to boost their competitive edge against Vietnam in the AFF Cup title chase.

According to information from Thairath Sport, Coach Anthony Hudson unveiled a notable reinforcement plan for the Thai National Team aiming to reclaim the AFF Cup title. Specifically, the "War Elephants" are targeting the addition of at least four players with Thai roots or mixed Thai heritage.

The names under consideration include Kenny Dougall – a midfielder currently playing for Buriram United, along with three players of European descent: Eric Kahl, Achitpol Keereerom, and Erawan Garnier. These players are all assessed to have a solid physical foundation, systematic training, and fit the direction of upgrading the squad's quality.

This move stems from the Thai National Team's defeat against the Vietnam Team in the AFF Cup 2024 final. The "War Elephants" lost both matches with scores of 1-2 and 2-3, thereby losing the regional crown right at home.

Additionally, the current Thai squad has shown signs of decline as many key players are aging. Evidence lies in the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers, where this team struggled to secure a 2-1 victory over Turkmenistan thanks to a late goal by 32-year-old defender Manuel Bihr.

Meanwhile, the Vietnam Team demonstrates stable development with a squad blending experience and youth. Under Coach Kim Sang-sik, the red-shirted team has added naturalized players like Nguyen Xuan Son and Do Hoang Hen, while giving opportunities to many young talents such as Trung Kien, Viet Cuong, Hai Long, or Dinh Bac.

By planning to add up to four mixed-heritage players, Thailand shows great determination in competing for the title. However, whether these players can complete procedures and be utilized timely still depends on the final decision from the Thai Football Association in the coming period.

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