Hudson backs War Elephants to shine - Bangkok Post
Thailand head coach Anthony Hudson speaks to the media. (Photo supplied) Thailand head coach Anthony Hudson expressed confidence in his squad selected for next week's King's Cup tournament despite the challenges posed by the match schedule, while also believing that the Asian Cup postponement could work in the War Elephants' favour.
Speaking to the media after his squad announcement for the Nov 14–17 tournament in Sri Sa Ket, the English coach said that despite constraints regarding the match schedule, the players are fully prepared to compete with no room for excuses.
"I am very satisfied with the players who have been called up. I am excited to work with this group and truly believe that they will be able to perform well and make us proud," he said.
Hudson acknowledged that the selection process presented several challenges, but insisted criticism surrounding his decision was normal.
"The selection for every training camp inevitably draws comments from fans. We have extensive discussions ahead of every camp -- whether for the Asean Cup, or this current one. Nothing is ever straightforward or easy. It is always difficult to finalise a 'perfect' squad list. We simply have to adapt to the situation," he said.
The coach also underscored the importance of maintaining balance and fostering cooperation with the players' respective clubs, expressing his understanding of the challenges faced by clubs as they navigate a congested match schedule.
"While we want everything to be ideal for the national team, we are also part of a larger picture within Thai football. Clubs face significant challenges, particularly regarding their match schedules -- for instance, the Asean Club Championship and the AFC Champions League. We want our domestic clubs to perform well in these competitions as it ultimately benefits Thai football as a whole. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a balance and work in cooperation with the clubs at all times," he said.
"Looking at the squad we've finalised, personally speaking, I feel relaxed and very satisfied with this group."
Hudson also expressed his excitement about taking the national team to compete in the provinces, emphasising that travelling across the country to connect with fans is a vital part of the national team's mission.
"The people of Sri Sa Ket have shown such an enthusiastic response and passion for football, and we are looking forward to taking the pitch in front of the fans there," he said.
Regarding the postponement of the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, which will now be played in December instead of January, Hudson said the new schedule would provide more time for preparation.
"I am personally very excited about this tournament, and I know the players are too. The postponement gives us more time to assemble the best possible squad, prepare more thoroughly, and spend more time together as a group. I truly believe this postponement is a positive development for us," he said.
