Regrettably, a "star player" appears likely to be excluded from the Thai national team for the crucial Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Turkmenistan.
On 9 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Bubble Yingrak Raksuwan, a renowned Thai football analyst, and Leesaw Theerathep Winothai, former Thai national footballer, jointly predicted the Thai national team roster. This comes ahead of head coach Anthony Hudson's announcement of the squad for the final Group D Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Turkmenistan, scheduled for 31 Mar 2026 GMT+7.
Both shared their views on the "Clear Rim Sen" show on Thairath Sport under the topic "Guessing Hudson's Mind Against Turkmenistan: Who Will Make Thailand's Final 23-Man Squad?" They revealed intriguing information about the center-back position, highlighting a possibly unfortunate omission from the upcoming squad announcement.
Bubble Yingrak discussed Jonathan Khemdee, a defender from Ratchaburi FC, who did not play in their recent 1-1 away draw against J1 League powerhouse Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League 2 quarterfinal first leg last week. He indicated Jonathan might be at risk of exclusion.
Bubble Yingrak said, "There are whispers that Jonathan might not be included this time. Recently, he seems to have had some off-field issues causing headaches. In the last game against Gamba Osaka, it was Adisorn Promrak who played."
When speculating who Anthony Hudson might pick for the position, Bubble Yingrak agreed with Leesaw Theerathep Winothai: "The usual players, Phassa Hemviboon and Natthaphong Sairiya, are definite picks. If given a choice, I’d also want Jonathan."
"Honestly, Jonathan should be included due to his playing style. I think Phassa, Piyawat, Natthaphong, and hopefully Jonathan will return soon. I still want Jonathan in the team."
The Thai national team will face Turkmenistan in the decisive Asian Cup 2027 final round qualifier on 31 Mar 2026 GMT+7, live on Thairath TV Channel 32.
