May 20, 2024 - According to Football Daily.
Thailand
The team is preparing to play
World Qualifying Round (WQR)
The team encountered bad news one after another when starting right back Mikkelsen will miss the game due to a serious injury, while the whole team will only have four days at most to practice together.
Serious injury to starting right back
: Mikkelsen suffered a knee injury in the Danish Premier League match on May 11, confirming a torn medial collateral ligament in his knee, and is expected to be out for eight weeks, out of time for the 36-team tournament in June. Mikkelsen has been Thailand's starting right back since his naturalization in March last year, and his injury will have a significant impact on the team.
Limited rehearsal time
: At least five of Thailand's international players play for Bangkok United, who will play the FA Cup final on June 1, which means they will not be able to participate in the national team's training session that began on May 29th. The Thai team will fly to Shenyang on June 2, leaving a maximum of four days for the full team to practice together.
Mickelson's replacement
: The Thai media have listed six possible candidates to start in Mickelson's place, with the first choice being Tristan Du, followed by Suparnam, and other candidates including Narupatin, Santipa, and Nitipong.
Commander Masatada Ishii
: Thailand manager Masatada Ishii is under a lot of pressure to consolidate his squad and find suitable replacements in a short period of time. He is expected to announce his roster this week and wants to keep the lineup as stable as possible.
Sungkrasin (name)
: Thailand's attacking centerpiece, Songkrasin, has scored nine goals and contributed six assists in 28 games so far this season, and his form will be crucial to the team.
Jani (French town)
: The 18-year-old Franco-Thai hybrid youngster Yanni has excelled and could be the team's secret weapon. He completed his naturalization in March this year and can play as a right or left back or wingback.
Ekani and Supacho
: Ekani, who plays for Urawa Red Diamonds, is expected to be selected again, while Sopacho's impressive performances in the J-League make him a potential threat to the national team.
Despite the many challenges, Thai media and fans are very optimistic about beating the national soccer team away from home in June. Striker veteran Dangda said that although Mikkelsen's injury has affected the team's side defense, he believes that Masataka Ishii has a suitable replacement.
