What Does Hudson Say? "Coach Yong" Predicts 2 Replacements for Pansa After Thailand National Team Withdrawal in Asian Cup Decider (Video)
On 16 March 2026, Coach Yong Worawut Srimaka, head coach of Ratchaburi FC, shared his views on Anthony Hudson, head coach of the Thailand national team, during the "Clear Rim Sen" program on Thairath Sport about the latest issues ahead of the crucial Asian Cup 2027 qualifying final match in Group D against Turkmenistan.
Thailand lost another player after announcing a 23-man squad last week for the match against Turkmenistan, but Pansa Hemviboon, the defender from Buriram United, had to withdraw due to an injury sustained in the latest Thai League 1 match, a 5-0 win over Chonburi FC last Saturday.
This left Thailand with only three central defenders: Natthapong Sairiya, Manuel Tom Bihr, and Phiawat Akkatham. As a result, Anthony Hudson must call up additional players to strengthen the squad, though the decision is still pending.
Coach Yong Worawut Srimaka analyzed that the most suitable replacements for Pansa Hemviboon whom Anthony Hudson should call up are two players: Jonathan Khemdee from Ratchaburi FC and Shinphat Liao, another defender from Buriram United.
Coach Yong's reasons:
1. Thailand needs tall, physically strong players to handle Turkmenistan.
2. If Turkmenistan focuses on deep defensive tactics, Thailand will require defenders with good ball distribution skills to add creativity to their play.
3. Players with international experience who can handle pressure well in this must-win crucial game.
Considering these three points, Coach Yong sees Jonathan Khemdee and Shinphat Liao as the best choices over others like Adisorn Promrak (Ratchaburi FC), Sarangkan Promsupa (Sukhothai FC), Elias Dolah (BG Pathum United), and Jakpan Praisuwan (True Bangkok United).
In the Asian Cup 2027 qualifying Group D, matchday 6, Thailand will face Turkmenistan at Rajamangala National Stadium on 31 March 2026 at 19:30. The match will be broadcast live on Thairath TV Channel 32, Thairath website, Facebook pages of Thairath TV and Thairath Sport, and YouTube channel Thairath Sport.
