Hudson Rests Key Players for FIFA Asean Cup, Targets Asian Cup

Thailand's national team squad reported for training camp on September 21 at Novotel Rangsit to prepare for the inaugural FIFA Asean Cup 2026 in Indonesia. Coach Anthony Hudson said the camp is a recovery period for players fresh from league matches, and the team will prepare comprehensively before travelling to Indonesia. When asked about midfielder Theerathorn Bunyamatan's absence, Hudson explained that despite his personal preference for the player, both the national team and club schedules are extremely tight. Given Bunyamatan's age and physical condition, Hudson decided to rest him to prevent long-term injury, preserving him for the Kings Cup and the crucial Asian Cup early next year.

Hudson defended his calls to younger wingers Anant Yodwudsak and Ikhlas Sanhorn, who rarely play for their clubs. He said both are talented young players with different playing styles that could benefit the team when tactical variety is needed. He praised Ikhlas as a rare winger who plays naturally on his stronger foot and can open up play, possessing good technique, pace and attitude. Anant is an aggressive winger excelling in one-on-one situations and tight spaces. Hudson acknowledged that Thai football's policy allowing many foreign players limits opportunities for Thai players in those positions, but noted that wingers are increasingly rare. He cited Manuel Tom Bihr as an example of a player who showed greater potential with the national team than his club.