Chappuis gets the chop, Rungrat selected for World Cup qualifier and Suzuki Cup
>> In a surprise move, Thai-Swiss midfielder Charyl Chappuis has been left out of the Thai teams for the 2018 World Cup qualifier against Australia on Nov 15 and the AFF Suzuki Cup, which kicks off four days later.
The Football Association of Thailand (FAT) on Friday named almost identical teams for the Kingcom’s fifth Group B game of Asia’s final qualifying round for Russia 2018 and the AFF Suzuki Cup.
Apart from giving Ratchaburi’s Rungrat Poomjanthuek a call-up to replace Chappuis in both squads, there is only one other difference in the two teams.
Koravit Namwiset, who was red-carded in Thailand’s 4-0 loss to Iraq earlier this month, is unavailable for the World Cup qualifier at Rajamangala National Stadium on Nov 15.
Koravit, who was handed a one-match suspension, will be replaced by Bangkok Glass defender Praweenawat Boonyong.
However, Koravit retains his place in the squad for the Suzuki Cup, in which the Thais will be defending their title, starting on Nov 19.
Thailand coach Kiatisak Senamuang said that both Praweenawat and Rungrat were selected after taking into account many things, but did not give any reason for axing Suphanburi midfielder Chappuis.
“I chose Praweenawat because he has played with many members of the team in the past,” said Kiatisak.
“Praweenawat won the gold medal with national team at the 2013 SEA Games in Myanmar, so he has been a part of the set-up.
“For Rungrat, I saw him play for Ratchaburi during their game against Buriram United and he could be a key player for us.
“We will see later if any changes are required for the 23-member team for the AFF Suzuki Cup title.”
Eight of the national team squad play for new Thai league champions SCG Muang Thong United.
They are Kawin Thamsatchanan, Peerapat Notechaiya, Tristan Do, Theerathon Bunmathan, Tanaboon Ketsarat, Sarach Yooyen, Chanathip Songkrasin and Teerasil Dangda.