SLNA: What position for Ho Tuan Tai?

In recent seasons, the striker born in 1995 has rarely been in the starting lineup of the Nghe An team in important matches in the V.League as well as in the National Cup. In addition to frequent injuries, Ho Tuan Tai also cannot compete for a starting position with foreign players with superior physique and physical strength.

Although there were times when “Van Quyen’s cousin” left a strong impression, that was not enough for this player to completely win the trust of the SLNA coaching staff. Simply, Ho Tuan Tai could not maintain stability for a long time. This is extremely regrettable for the former striker of U19 Vietnam and U22 Vietnam.

Ho Tuan Tai is rarely in SLNA's starting lineup. Photo courtesy

Entering this season, in addition to successfully retaining striker Olaha, the Nghe An team also brought to Vinh Stadium another killer, foreign player Alves. The appearance of the Brazilian player will make SLNA's attack line even more crowded, especially the striker position. Obviously, Ho Tuan Tai's opportunity to play will be greatly affected.

Almost certainly, the highest playing duo in SLNA's attack this season is Olaha - Alves. Because there is no way the Nghe An team would spend a lot of money to recruit foreign players just to "decorate" the bench; except in the case that the Olaha - Alves duo suffers a long-term injury, or the Brazilian striker does not meet the professional requirements...

From that, we can see that Ho Tuan Tai only has 2 options: Either accept being a backup plan, or adapt to another position - similar to what domestic strikers have done recently. That is, playing on the wing (Ha Duc Chinh at SHB Da Nang) or playing behind the striker (Mac Hong Quan at Than Quang Ninh).

Based on the current personnel situation at SLNA, the most likely position for Ho Tuan Tai is right winger. Since Tran Phi Son left, this is the position that has given SLNA’s coaching staff the biggest headache. Alternatives like Ho Phuc Tinh, Le The Cuong… have not shown any peace of mind. It is worth mentioning that in the past season, Ho Tuan Tai also took on this position many times.

Phan Van Duc also played as a striker. Photo courtesy

With his strong physical foundation, skillful individual techniques and cunning, "Van Quyen's cousin" can completely compete successfully and become a sharp spearhead on the right wing. The important thing is whether the SLNA coaching staff is willing to experiment and whether Ho Tuan Tai himself is willing to train or not.

Don’t forget that before becoming an excellent left winger, Phan Van Duc’s forte was as a striker. At the 2012 National U17 Finals, Phan Van Duc played as a striker with Ho Tuan Tai on the U17 SLNA attack line. If Duc “the tiger” can do it, will Ho Tuan Tai be helpless?