Thailand to lose key player prior to World Cup qualifying match against Vietnam
(VOVWORLD) - Thitipan Puangchan’s injury is more serious than at first thought. He must take a rest on medical advice for at least 8 weeks, according to Thai media sources.
The midfielder picked up an injury in Thailand’s draw to Vietnam last week. He was then sent back to his home club for treatment and missed Thailand’s 3-0 win over Indonesia.
A Thai doctor initially diagnosed that Thitipan had a thigh muscle tear with a little knee pain and said he would need approximately 4 weeks to recover. But a later examination in a Japanese hospital showed a right hamstring injury that will take him at least 8 weeks to recover.
Thitipan, one of 4 Thai footballers playing overseas, signed with J-League Oita Trinita. Chanathip, Theerathon, and Thitipand have been key players of the Thai national team under coach Akira Nishino.