Thailand’s 23-player squad, announced this afternoon, features many familiar stars. Veterans include defender Theerathon, midfielders Chanathip, Sarach Yooyen, and Supachok Sarachat. Additionally, promising under-23 talents like Seksan Ratree, Iklas Sanron, Yotsakorn, and forward Annh Jude Soonsup-Bell have been called up.
Notably, some prominent players, such as center-back Jonathan Khemdee, midfielder Ben Davis, and forward Suphanat Mueanta, were not selected. Coach Hudson admitted that finalizing the squad was a difficult process, potentially disappointing some individuals. However, he also acknowledges the immense pressure he is under ahead of the match against Turkmenistan.
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Coach Anthony Hudson attended a press conference on the afternoon of 12/3/2026, to announce the Thailand national team squad for the Asian Cup 2027 final qualifier against Turkmenistan. Photo: ThailandNT
"This match puts pressure not only on me but also on the Football Association of Thailand (FAT)", Coach Hudson stated after announcing the squad this afternoon. "I am prepared to accept all questions and criticisms. The most important thing is that we secure qualification for the Asian Cup".
In Group D of the Asian Cup 2027 final qualifiers, Thailand and Turkmenistan both have 12 points. However, Thailand ranks behind due to an inferior head-to-head record, having lost 1-3 in the first leg. The two teams will meet in the final match on 31/3 at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok. The hosts must win, while Turkmenistan only needs a draw to advance.
The English coach mentioned the difficulty in finding information about Turkmenistan, prompting him to seek assistance from online communities. Subsequently, detailed information about the opponent’s playing style from their last 12 matches was compiled. Hudson urged his players to respect their opponents and not underestimate them.
"Turkmenistan plays as a team, is physically strong, defends solidly, and attacks directly with long forward passes", Coach Hudson explained. "We need to improve our intensity. Selecting wing-backs who can attack quickly and deliver early crosses will be suitable for the upcoming match".
Lacking an available opponent for a friendly match, Thailand arranged a training session with North Bangkok University. Coach Hudson took charge of the Thai team in 11/2025, succeeding Japanese coach Masatada Ishii. Under his leadership, the team secured a 3-2 friendly win against Singapore and a 4-0 victory over Sri Lanka in the Asian Cup 2027 final qualifiers.
Thailand National Football Team Squad:
Goalkeepers (3): Saranon Anuin (BG Pathum United), Patiwat Khammai (Bangkok United), Kampol Pathomakkakul (Ratchaburi)
Defenders (7): Pansa Hemviboon, Narubadin (Buriram United), Manuel Bihr (Bangkok United), Nicholas Mickelson (SV Elversberg), Suphanan Bureerat, Peerawat Akkratum (Port FC), Nattapong Sayriya (Chonburi)
Midfielders (10): Peeradon (Port FC), Anan Yodsangwal (Lamphun Warriors), Seksan Ratree (Rayong), Theerathon (Buriram United), Sarach Yooyen, Chanathip, Krtisada Kaman (BG Pathum United), Supachok Sarachat (Consadole Sapporo), Thanawat (Ratchaburi), Iklas Sanron (PT Prachuap)
Forwards (3): Supachai Chaided (Buriram United), Jude Soonsup-Bell (Grimsby Town), Yotsakorn Burapha (Chonburi).
