The Thailand national team has announced the 23-player squad for the crucial final qualifying match against Turkmenistan in the 2027 Asian Cup.
Naturally, there are selections that please some fans and disappoint others, as preferences vary among supporters.
To satisfy everyone, they would probably have to call up the entire league!
The announced list reflects the decisions made by Anthony Hudson, the head coach responsible for selecting the squad.
The coach calls up whoever he prefers or wants to use; it's as simple as that.
Ultimately, results are the proof, and as head coach, he must take responsibility for the team’s performance.
Fans have the right to critique, as long as it remains respectful, since the national team belongs to all Thai people.
Following the announcement, fan reactions have been generally positive, though it’s normal that some positions or players remain controversial.
Most players are familiar faces from the recent game where Thailand thrashed Sri Lanka late last year.
However, there are some changes in certain positions because Hudson has had more time to scout, watching the Thai League every week.
Let's review each player and position in detail.
Starting with the goalkeepers, there were no surprises: Patiwat Kamnai, Saranon Anuin, and Kampon Pathomakkakul were called up as expected.
These three are currently the best goalkeepers in Thailand, though who will be the first choice remains to be decided.
Moving to center-backs, Pansa Hemviboon and Natthapong Sairiya, the starting pair from the last game, are retained to lead the defense.
The surprise is the return of Manuel Tom Bihr to the national team after over three years.
Fans may be puzzled, but Hudson explained that Tom’s playing style suits the match against Turkmenistan and that his experience is valuable.
Another newcomer is Phiyawat Akkatham, who has been regularly playing for Port FC and is called up to the senior national team for the first time.
The four center-backs chosen by Hudson are reasonable picks, given the limited pool of Thai players in this position in the Thai League.
A notable absence is Jonathan Khemdee, who missed out again due to injury.
At full-back, key players Nicholas Mickelson, who will shift to left-back, and Suphanan Burirat on the right are unsurprising selections.
The notable return is Narubodin Weerawatnodom, who rejoins the national team after nearly four years.
Fans may wonder since "Captain Ton" hasn’t played much for Buriram United, but Hudson believes his style fits the national team well.
In midfield, nearly all main players are back, led by veterans Theerathon Boonmatan and Chanathip Songkrasin.
Sarach Yooyen may raise questions since he hasn’t played much, but Hudson expressed admiration for this midfielder from the first training camp.
Peeradon Chamratsamee remains included, as does Thanawat Suengchitthawon, who has yet to be dropped.
Newly recalled is Krisda Kamphan, while Benjamin James David has been omitted this time.
Hudson said dropping Ben was the hardest decision but is confident they will work together again in the future.
On the wings, established players Supachok Sarachat and Seksan Ratri were called up as usual.
Iklas Sanorn also received a chance to try out again, as did Anan Yodsangwal, who had to withdraw last match due to injury.
It’s unfortunate that Suphanat Mueanta is injured, but this opens the door for the in-form Yotsakorn Burapha to be called up as his replacement.
The Chonburi striker is versatile, playing on the wing, as a second striker, or center forward, making him a valuable option since the squad has only two professional strikers.
Supachai Jaided has recovered from injury just in time, and Jude Supsap Bels returns with increased confidence.
Overall, Hudson’s 23-man squad looks solid. Fans can look forward to cheering them on March 31 as they face Turkmenistan for a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup.
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