Not Coach Park Hang-seo, Thailand appoints American coach to lead national team

This morning, the Football Association of Thailand announced that they have selected Anthony Hudson as the new head coach of the national team. Among the candidates such as Park Hang-seo, Shin Tae-yong…, they only called Anthony Hudson for an interview. And after the morning, the working process between the two sides was completed with positive signals. Accordingly, from the position of technical director, Anthony Hudson will become the head coach of the Thai national team.

The president of the Thai Football Association, Madam Pang, also confirmed the above information. "At this important time, we need someone who understands Thai football well. Anthony Hudson has worked with the FAT at all levels and has a lot of experience," said president Madam Pang.

Coach Anthony Hudson was appointed to lead the Thai national team.

It can be said that this is a safe choice for Thailand. Among the candidates to sit in the vacant chair, Park Hang-seo and Shin Tae-yong are possible choices but these two strategists do not seem to be really ready. Meanwhile, domestic coaches are tied to club obligations so it is difficult for them to take on the task immediately.

In that context, Anthony Hudson emerged as the strongest candidate. The 44-year-old strategist has spent a long time as the technical director of the federation, has a good relationship with officials as well as Thai players. Besides, he has an impressive CV when he has led teams such as the US, New Zealand or Bahrain.

This move also proves that Thailand has changed its approach policy. They are no longer pursuing coaches from Japan. The two recent choices, after failing with Akira Nishino and Masatada Ishii, seem to have caused FAT to change its operating philosophy. Many Thai newspapers emphasize that Mr. Hudson is only considered an interim coach. If he impresses in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, he will be signed a long-term contract.