Right after being appointed as Thailand national coach and U23 team coach, Japanese coach Akira Nishino pointed out the weakness of the ‘War Elephants’ team.
Recently, after poor performances Thailand, Sirisak Yodyardthai and coach Alexandre Gama respectively stepped down making both coaching position in Thailand vacant. This has forced the Thai Football Federation to rush to find a replacement when important tournaments are approaching.
After the negotiation process, former Japanese coach Akira Nishino surpassed former Korean footballer Yoon Jong-Hwan and became the new coach of the national team and U23 Thailand with a valid contract and a deadline announced.
Recently, in sharing with the media, the coach has made judgments about Thai football.
"Preparing for the 1996 Olympics, I led the Japanese U23 team to play friendly match with Thailand at Suphanburi," Thai Rath quoted coach Akira Nishino.
“At that time, I saw Thai players have the technique and potential to become one of the strong teams in Asia. They have many similarities to Japan. I have been paying attention to Thailand since then and realize that what they lack is just spirit. They will make great progress if I am able to inspire the players' determination”.
Receiving dual missions in Thailand, Akira Nishino will have to lead the Thai national team to attend the World Cup 2022 qualifiers and U22 Thailand in the 30th SEA Games in the Philippines from now until the end of the year.
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Amelia London
