Thailand beat Singapore 3-2, Hudson called Theerathon the best

The Thai national team kicked off the Anthony Hudson era with a 3-2 win over Singapore in a FIFA Days friendly on the evening of November 13, with Theerathon Bunmathan making a standout performance. After more than a year of absence, the veteran defender immediately scored and was called the team's "best player" by the new coach.

Theerathon's goal and return

The friendly was arranged to prepare for the upcoming Asian Cup qualifier against Sri Lanka. Thailand scored three goals through Sarach Yooyen, Theerathon Bunmathan and Seksan Ratree to beat Singapore 3-2. This was Anthony Hudson's first match as head coach after replacing Ishii Masatada.

Notably, this is also Theerathon's return to the Thai national team after more than a year of not being called up. His presence immediately made a difference with a goal, both as an affirmation of his class and a message about his familiar leadership role.

Anthony Hudson's tactical angle

Hudson used Theerathon flexibly between the lines, starting in midfield before adjusting him to the left wing in the second half. Commenting on his student, the Thai coach said: "Theerathon Bunmathan's quality can show a great performance in the position of midfielder or left-back. I still reaffirm that statement that Theerathon is still the best player. He plays in the midfield position with confidence and courage to control the ball and can join the attack to score at any time. In the second half, I adjusted Theerathon to drop to left-back to be able to defend the opponent's crosses."

Moving Theerathon allows Thailand to reinforce the left flank against Singapore's cutting attacks, while maintaining a fulcrum to develop the ball from the back. His versatility gives Hudson more flexibility in arranging personnel between controlling and preserving the advantage.

Theerathon and the obsession of Vietnam National Team

For over a decade, Theerathon has been a name that has haunted Vietnamese football. According to data from the original article, in official matches with Theerathon, the Thai team has never lost to the Vietnamese team. All three of Vietnam's most recent victories over Thailand (King's Cup 2019 and two matches under coach Kim Sang Sik) came when he was absent.

Theerathon's influence peaked at the AFF Cup 2022: he both created and scored the decisive goal, while also controlling the tempo, organizing the defense and inspiring the whole team on their journey to the championship.

Impact before Asian Cup qualifiers

The win over Singapore and Theerathon’s performance gave Hudson a clear foothold before facing Sri Lanka in the Asian Cup qualifiers. The return of a key player to top form gives Thailand more tactical options, especially the ability to switch between midfield and left flank.

Personnel notes

The original article also mentioned: former Chelsea striker Jude Soonsup-Bell admitted that he still had a chance to play for England but chose to play for Thailand.