Hudson Backs Young Thai Players, Says Age Won't Decide Selection
Thailand's national football team crushed Laos 5-0 in the AFF Cup opener, with coach Anthony Hudson emphasizing that player selection will be based on potential and readiness rather than age.
Anthony Hudson, head coach of Thailand's national football team, spoke following Thailand's opening AFF Cup Group B preliminary match. Thailand defeated Laos 5-0, with goals from Kondogbia Yamyok (two), Theerasak Phayapimay, Yodsak Borappha, and Saracha Yooyean.
"I'm satisfied with today's match because we started this tournament with a victory, and the team has many new players," Hudson said. "Another positive is that nobody was injured and everyone played according to the tactics we set out. I want to thank the fans who traveled to support us at the stadium. I was deeply impressed by their effort and cheering."
Hudson added that the team will return to Thailand immediately to recover and prepare for the next match. "We need to focus match by match and always give our best. Saracha's condition needs another check, but initially it doesn't look serious—likely just a minor impact."
"I personally acknowledged my concerns about players' fitness before the tournament began, but I believe everyone will be increasingly ready in the coming days. I'm impressed with the young players from U23, just as I am with the experienced players on this squad. I confirm that my player selection is not determined by age, but rather by potential and readiness," Hudson stated.
Player of the match Theerasak Phayapimay commented on young goalkeeper Chavalit Saeleao: "Saf has good ability and needs to keep developing. I want to encourage him."
Thailand's next match is AFF Cup Group B's second preliminary round against Malaysia (ranked 136th globally) at Rajamangala Stadium on August 1, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are available online, and the match will be broadcast live on TrueVisions Now.
