Nicholas Mickelson clearly responds on the matter of replacing “Theerathon” if he is not included for Thailand's match against Turkmenistan.
On 25 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Thailand national team attacking fullback Nicholas Mickelson spoke openly about the chance to play as left back in place of Theerathon Bunmathan, who suffered a broken nose in the AFC Champions League Elite. The experienced left back's condition has steadily improved, and he has begun light training again.
Recently, Mickelson has delivered impressive performances for his club, SC Paderborn, consistently playing as a left back. He also scored his first goal in the 2. Bundesliga during a 2-1 victory over Dynamo Dresden.
When asked whether playing left back for his club while usually serving as a right back for the national team would allow him to fill Theerathon's role, Mickelson acknowledged it is difficult because their playing styles differ.
“Theerathon and I have different playing styles. There are things I can do that he cannot, and things he can do that I cannot. He is an excellent player, and it is hard to replace him.”
Looking ahead, Thailand is scheduled to host Turkmenistan in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifying round on 31 March 2026 GMT+7, at Rajamangala National Stadium, with kickoff at 19:30 GMT+7.