Updates on the 'War Elephants U23' team under the management of Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, known as 'Coach Wang,' following the squad announcement for a special football tournament in China featuring Thailand, China, Vietnam, and North Korea as an important warm-up ahead of the major Asian Games.
Recently, Coach Wang admitted that he plans to bring in four over-age players to strengthen the team, aiming to add experience and robustness to the young squad.
The candidates include veteran playmaker Chanathip Songkrasin, promising striker Suphanat Mueanta, versatile midfielder Kritsada Kaman, and key central midfielder Weerathep Pomphan.
Under the Asian Games rules, three over-age players are allowed, with Coach Wang's main picks being 'Bank' Suphanat, who just turned 23, and 'Jay' Chanathip, who is expected to lead the team and share his international experience with the younger players.
Meanwhile, Kritsada and Weerathep are also in the plans but their involvement depends on confirmation from Anthony Hudson, the senior national team head coach; if they have no conflicting duties, they may join this squad.
Player selection still requires discussions with Thachathawan Sripan and executives from the club True Bangkok United to obtain permission for release during this period.
Coach Wang's goal is to lead Thailand's U23 team to reach the semifinals, as in the era of Kiatisuk Senamuang, and ideally to win a medal to bring pride to Thai football fans and create a new historic milestone in Thai football history.