Thoughts on Nishino’s First Thailand Squad

Thailand prepares to face Vietnam and Indonesia in the first two matches of the 2022 World Cup/2023 Asian Cup qualifiers, and new boss Akira Nishino has picked his first 33-man provisional squad. Today, our Thailand based writers Obb Deewajin and Gian Chansrichawla discuss their thoughts on the squad selection, and what it could mean for the team going forward.

A full list of the squad can be viewed here

What do you make of the high number of young playerswho were selected

Obb: Time is a valued commodity in international football. And with Nishino also taking charge of the U23s, which is set to compete in the SEA Games this November, I believe it's great that he gets to have a look at the talent pool first hand. Not only that but the players themselves also get the chance to know Nishino's system better. Thus acting as a U23 separation, in and of itself, as well as the bridge from youth level to the senior team. 

Gian: Every one of the young players Nishino selected has earned the right to train with the big boys thanks to their performance in the Thai League. Nishino genuine depth for selection with the U23’s this year and will be spoiled for choice. It’s nice to see both of Samut Prakan City’s wingbacks get the recognition they deserve for making their system work so well, and Muangthong’s defensive duo Saringkan Promsupa and Patcharapol Intanee who have progressed leaps and bounds since being made regular members of the first team. Putting Nishino in charge of both the senior and U23 teams is meant to encourage cohesion in this way, and I’m glad to see it working