New head coach of Thailand national team said something surprising on his debut day

After parting ways with Japanese coach Masatada Ishi, the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) has appointed a new person to sit in the 'hot seat' to prepare for the matches during FIFA Days in November.

Following the official announcement of the termination of the contract with coach Masatada Ishii on October 21, FAT appointed Mr. Anthony Hudson (previously holding the position of FAT Technical Director) as the new head coach of the Thai team. The announcement ceremony of the new head coach was held at FAT headquarters on the afternoon of October 23.

According to Thai media, FAT President Nualphan Lamsam (also known as Madam Pang) said that the appointment of Mr. Hudson was based on the general consideration of the technical department, to ensure continuity in the work of the Thai team and prepare for important matches in November. Specifically, the "war elephants" will play a friendly match with Singapore on November 13, before having an away match against Sri Lanka in the final qualifying round of the 2027 Asian Cup on November 18.

"Thailand can attend the World Cup"

At the launch, Coach Hudson affirmed that his immediate goal is to bring the Thai team to the 2027 Asian Cup finals. When asked about the World Cup, the new head coach shared: "I believe the Thai team has the ability to participate in the World Cup finals. However, Thai football needs to develop the young generation of players and create more playing conditions for them."

Coach Hudson introduced to Thai media on October 23

PHOTO: FAT

"The decision to take on the role of head coach of the Thai national team comes from my love for this country. I see the passion for football of all Thai people. I say this not just because the press conference room is full of people. My wish is to lead the team to the final round of the Asian Cup 2027, and then to make the Thai players and fans proud," Thairath quoted coach Hudson.

What did Madam Pang say?

"At this crucial time, we need someone who understands Thai football. Anthony Hudson has worked with FAT at all levels and has extensive international experience," Madam Pang emphasized. Madam Pang affirmed that FAT believes in Hudson's potential and believes that the 44-year-old coach can lead the Thai team to develop, including both short-term and long-term goals. "The Thai team needs stability and a clear direction. Anthony Hudson is the right person at this time," the FAT President shared.

Anthony Hudson (born 1981) is an English-American coach who has coached many international teams such as the United States, New Zealand and Bahrain. He has also worked at professional clubs in England and the United States. Hudson has held the position of Technical Director of FAT since 2024.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tan-hlv-truong-doi-tuyen-thai-lan-noi-dieu-bat-ngo-trong-ngay-ra-mat-185251023163747227.htm