Photo credit: Robert Procurer

Mui bpai thii nai?

You read it here first and today it's official. Nattaporn Panarit is a BEC Tero player. Thanks captain, you were always a true pro.
******
Now, transfer hype surrounded Teerasil Dangda before this season even started and "Mui's" superb performances - including a string of "one man team" displays before the squad hit form - have only served to raise the stakes.

Ben at MTU Replay has spotted a group of Turkish fans descending on one of Mui's youtube clips and declaring the target man "welcome" in Turkey. I seem to recall that Mui is a Muslim and if I'm right, perhaps that might play a part in his choice of destination as he seeks to further his career.

However, a very well placed source (many thanks to that person, as ever) says that Turkey will not be the striker's next stop of choice but everyone now seems resigned to the fact that Teerasil, like Yaya, has reached the point where he needs to leave Thailand to further his career.

That doesn't mean a transfer is around the corner. Kawin has had big teams sniffing around him for over two seasons now, but when the time does come - be it next week or next year - we fans can only wish that the club get the best fee, the best replacement and send the very best of wishes to a fantastic player and a true pro who gave us so much to remember.

2012 Squad Introduction

Jirawat mooinblack 66818053470

Muangthong United look set for a stronger season in 2012. Despite the close season being all too short, the management have manoeuvred very wisely in the transfer market and at the time of writing, only the promise of a new international defender was left to be fulfilled. Now then, I present a run down of the key players in Muangthong United's 2012 campaign, the year we take back that we lost.

In Thailand players can be known by "official" nickname (informal), first name (easier sometimes) or surname (professional football style). Often, I use my own affectionate nicknames for ease. The name in quotations is how I expect to refer to the player in reports.

Note: official squad numbers will be added ASAP. 

"Just to reconfirm, if the contract ends early......"

Slaviša Jokanović  -  Head Coach, "Solvva"
The Serbian comes with a pedigree and experience that promises much. It almost goes without saying that all he needs is to be left alone to get on with his work.
Most likely to: Get a sore throat from cheering his team's goals, and a sore tongue from biting it.



Key player: Kawin Thamasatchanan - GK "Kawin"

"The exit's that way Mister De Gea"

22 year old Kawin may be barely past Kindergarten by goalkeeper standards, yet I still have a hunch this season could be crucial in determining his long term career success.

Injury held him back in 2011 and although he returned to full fitness well before mid-season, his form was hindered by the boardroom wrangles and then the rule of Robbie that the whole team suffered from.

Perhaps his confidence took a hit but if anyone had forgotten about his potential, they certainly remembered after his colossal display in the cup final.

In my opinion this all sets Kawin back at square one - a young goalie with huge potential that needs to be managed carefully by Muangthong. Rene suggested he take a move to a bigger Asian league such as Japan for his next step but even if the big move to England does happen, he might just cope OK. Not only is he highly professional in his training but he's also humble and sensible. This is a guy who still turns up in flip flops to watch Rajpracha FC with his mum, smiling shyly when fans ask him for a photo.

In summary, a performance akin to the 2010 season is distinctly possible this season, fate allowing. How this remarkably precocious 'keeper deals with the inevitable approaches that come his way will be life changing. Yes, he's that good, he could be the elusive one.
Most likely to: Make the guys cheer, the girls swoon and have everyone chanting his name after another fingertip save.

Reserve goalies
With Weera on loan at TOT and  Witsanusak Kaewruang still out somewhere, our two reserve goalies are totally unknown quantities right now. I believe their names are Weerayut Makmoon and Suttichoke Chaikan.  More information to come when available.
Most likely to: Have this blogger and ATF asking each other: "Which one is this guy again? "



Weerawut  Kayem - Left back "Kayem"
Teenage left back with pace and professionalism who showed his face in 2010 and then came on in leaps and bounds last season. This year he should look for consistency. A chance to really establish his name as a long term MTU player beckons.
Most likely to: Make older fans feel tired simply by seeing how much he can run

Ri Kwang Chon - Centre back "Ri Kwang" 
Details here.

Panupong Wongsa - Centre back "Panupong"
Like so many Muangthong players, 2011 can be summed up as "Good, but just not as good as 2010" for southern-born Panupong. A return to stability along with some quality cover should see a restitution of form this time around. More battles with the hungry young attacking players at Buriram United await.
Most likely to: Pick up some more MOTM awards on the blog.

Captain Nattaporn and his daughter

Key player: Nattaporn Pannarit - Centre back and captain "Nattaporn, Captain Nat"
Aged thirty, a veteran by Thai standards, Captain Nattaporn was my defender of choice last season for his bravery, positioning and commitment to the cause. Under Fowler however, his form dropped considerably, something he noticed himself when it started to come back. A return to full form is vital for this season as another drop might spell the end of his career at top level. I've got no doubt he'll come good again though, he's got heart.
Most likely to: Get that bruising last second goal-line clearance.



Arthit Daosawang - Right back, "Arthit"
Almost a character clone of Kayem, but at right back. Arthit will be looking to build consistency on top of the foundations of potential he showed last season. We still need cover down both flanks for these teenage players, though.
Most likely to: Play a great game of football, then go home and play a great game of 'Call of Duty' online.


Todsapol Lated - Centre back, "Todd"
Snapped up from cash-strapped Thai Port last season, probably for a fire sale fee. Thai Port fans rate him highly but inside whispers have suggested consistency might be an issue.

Super Mario squashes another one

Most likely to: Get love from both Thai Port and MTU fans after we play them.




Key player:  Mario Djurovski - Midfield, "Super Mario"
Another incoming foreigner from close-season that comes highly rated. Early impressions are of a player that likes to play steady, weighted passes on the floor. If he can adjust quickly enough to the Thai game and the pitch conditions that come with it, a player of this type might make all the difference in our final league position.
Most likely to: Be a big hit with home fans.



Datsakorn Thonglao - Centre midfield, "Datsakorn, Dat Le Tiss"
The "Le Tissier" of 2010 found wonder goals and consistency (that word again) far harder to come by last time around. But it's not just flashy stuff that counts with the former Tero man, he can get stuck in, too. The quality is still there and perhaps the arrival of a player that, a first glance, looks so similar in style (Barakat) will push him to raise his game.
Most likely to: Get muddy shorts in the rainy season, thanks to all those slide-tackles.

Now that blogger's got no excuse!

Dagno Siaka - Attacking midfield/deep midfield "Dagno, Danny-o, Kone"
Long term member of the squad and one of those players you always want on your side. Dagno is versatile, quick and strong and could walk in to almost any first team in Thailand.
Most likely to: Take penalties, and keep the new hairstyle to stop me confusing him with Kone again. (I hope!).



Nattarid Thammarossopon - Centre midfield, "Natt"
Young player signed from BEC Tero, shows massive promise.
Most likely to: Win a MOTM award then get taken out to Swensens by his mum as reward.


Adnan Barakat - Centre midfield, "Adnan"
Signed from FC Baku, Barakat comes highly rated and his youtube highlights suggest he might be a set-piece demon. Could prove a real challenge to Datsakorn.
Most likely to: Score a great free kick then wai the fans.





Jakkaphan Pornsai - Wing, attacking midfield, "Pornsai"
Hotly anticipated player signed from Police before 2011 that only showed flashes of his promise last time around Will need to work hard this season. My gut feeling says he won't be with us for more than half a season.
Most likely to: Run down the line, cut inside and lay the low cross.



Ekapoom Potharungroj - Winger, "Ekapoom"
As with Todsapol, well-rated by Port fans but needs to earn his place.

You talkin' to me? I don't see nobody else....

Pitchipong Choechieu - Midfield, "Pitchipong"
We're looking a little top-heavy on midfielders aren't we? We could guess Pitchipong is the man to make way, but then every time I write him off, he comes back more dedicated and better than ever.
Most likely to: Pop up when you need him.


Piyapol Buntao - Attacking midfielder, "Buntao"
A squad player for the last couple of seasons that has started to look more and more deserving of a place in the first team. Seems to raise his game for the bigger matches. Definitely good to have on the bench, at least.
Most likely to: Have everyone forget about him, come off the bench and score a cracker.

Christian be praised!

Key player: Christian Kaokao - Winger, forward, "Chris, Christian"
The real bonus of the 2012, given how much interest has been shown in him lately and how resigned many staff were to losing him. His remarkable ability was subdued by the sheer physical pressure of so much travel and playing time over the last two seasons and for that reason, that single extra week of rest we've been given before opening day might just make a big difference. Still a highly talented dribbler and finisher that is held back by his mental approach to the game.
Most likely to: Just like last season - beat three guys, go for a penalty, realise he won't get it, get up, beat them all again and score a great goal.



Kone Muhammed - Forward, "Kone, Dagno"
The prodigal son of 2012? As if being re-signed from TOT - where he went due to his failed fitness test in Belgium - wasn't respite enough, Kone received full support from MTU staff during some confusion with the police over a drugs test in pre-season. Now's his chance to pay back the club by providing solid back up to Chris and Teerasil. The latter should especially appreciate the extra muscle up front, as he was so often isolated and hustled off the ball in 2011. He's not just about the brawn though, a fully fit Kone sure as heck knows how to find the net himself, too.
Most likely to: Scare opposition defenders.

Choe Kum-Chol - Striker "Choe Kum"
Details here.

Teerasil Dangda - Striker, "Teerasil"
Nothing has changed. This guy is still pure class.
Most likely to: Show the great technique he has.



Other players that might play a role:
Piyachart - full back, loaned to BEC Tero all last season.
Mongkol Namnuad - midfielder signed from Thai Port.
Diarra Ali - defender out on loan to Suphanburi because of the new foreign players rule. Can be recalled any time.
Bobouacar Issofou - winger, my "will he or won't he?" player of 2011, now loaned out and in a similar conundrum to Ali.
Santhi Chaiyaphruk - utility player, signed from Pattaya and loaned out midway through last season.

******


Photo credits:  Jirawat mooinblack 66818053470  except Kawin (affsuzukicup.com) and Nattaporn (shutterstock.com)

Nattaporn quote

Interesting quote from our captain on the OS:

 “We have more intensive training session.” The 30-years-old ace said. “It looks like a previous season which we won the Thei League title, our squad have stayed together for long time as well as our new arrivals, they are very good lads. We are getting better in training because there aren’t any star players in our squad anymore. "

The 2011 awards

Well yes, I could make your hangover worse by talking about the loss at Buriram yesterday in the last minute of the game. I could dampen the cheer by pointing out several players apologising for "poor form" on the OS (not the people that should be apologising, mind you) but I'd rather wish everyone a Happy New Year and move on to more positive things.

So after you've seen Robbie's message in the Twitter feed it's time for the Thunderdome Blog's 2011 awards! These awards are by far the least prestigious in football and attract absolutely no stars and cameramen every year. Moreover, the prize for each award is a cup of tea (Twinings or Lipton) awarded to the player as soon as they turn up at my home. The current number of acceptances stands at zero, as of 1/1/2012.

The first award is....

Newcomer of the year

Kayem - great potential

This is a toughie because a lot of new faces arrived in 2011 but the performances were very mixed. Yet despite the setbacks of the year some very encouraging new boys have come through. In the full back slots two very promising baby-faced players made a name for themselves. On the right we had Arthit and on the left we have our winner, Weerawut Kayem. He made his debut last year but really shone this season by holding his own in the big game against PEA at home, proving he had the mental skill as well as the physical. He was recently injured but has now returned. Like Kawin, he seems friendly and humble and that should make for an excellent career.




Goalie or Defender of the year

Nattaporn - not scared of the trenches

Champions should always have quality and depth in this area and MTU are no different. Last year we had Asia's best goalie, Jetsada, Panupong and Nattaporn. This year Zesh took time to adjust but has comfortably filled the void left by the self-destructing Jetsada and the back line is as strong as ever. The recent setbacks have possibly dented the confidence of young Kawin and his form has dipped but Manchester United don't scout players without good reason, he's brilliant and he'll be back to form soon.

What's been really pleasing about this season is the way winner Nattaporn Pannarit stepped up to the plate and took over the captain's armband. Every challenge, every header and every clearance has been battled for by this guy and his performances early in the season were the only thing that's stopped us getting trounced even more often. He's shown real character and deserves the award.


Midfielder of the year

Dagno-catch him if you can 

It's not been a great season for our midfielders. Some new signings didn't fit in as well as they hoped - perhaps they haven't been given enough of a chance - and some players didn't have as good as season as last year 2010. But still there have been some great showings. Piyapol Buntao is looking more consistent, Pitchipong battles back every time he looks to be fading away and Datsakorn still hit a few goals. But this decision is fairly easy: Dagno Siaka is one of the few players who has looked as good as last season. His long legs defy his deft first touch and turn of pace and the way he drifts between midfield and attack pulls opposition players out of position, creating openings for his team-mates. He must be hell to mark.


Attacker of the year:

Christian Koukou is the only choice here, apart from....

(drumroll).......The 2011 Player of the year.....

Remember that goal Vs Oz?

"The best striker in Thailand" is how one of my students described him, and he was right. If the interest around Teerasil "Mui" Dangda ends up in a transfer, then we must either sign a European striker in his prime or accept we are not title challengers anymore, because there is nobody in Thailand that is as two-footed, quick-thinking, able with his back to goal, composed, committed or excellent at finishing as this guy. Before this season's home game with Saraburi, a former MTU coach told me we'd struggle if Mui got injured. Sure enough, he got injured and our form plummeted. It's not coincidence. Teerasil Dangda is class to the point where I feel guilty for paying a paltry sum of  baht to watch him ply his trade, which brings me on to.....


Goal of the year:

Plenty of choice, but Teerasil's goal at home to Thai Port takes it because it came from a corner......by Thai Port, with a brilliant break and perfect through-ball by Christian before "Mui" shows his usual class. Watch the magic at work.




Game of the year:
MTU 9 Samut Prakan United 0
It's not been a year of demolition derbies like last season but such goal-fests could never last forever. There's still been plenty to cheer about at home though, and a nine goal thrashing, even against a lower league team, was still very satisfying to watch.

Kuwait SC Vs MTU - AFC Cup Qtr final 1st leg - Preview

 

It was this stage of the competition last season that MTU really turned on the style. Back then the opposition was Al-Karamah, can the Quilins go one better this time around at 2230 local time on Tuesday?

The squad is hitting form at the right time, and at least some of the players hurt during  the ongoing injury crisis should return. Kawin may be available, Nattaporn should be back and Panupong is an outside chance, though Zesh is still struggling to recover from his sprain received in the swamp-like conditions from the Osotspa game.

Kuwait SC - so named because the club also plays water polo, squash, handball and many other sports - have already won two domestic trophies this season. They play at the 18,500 capacity Al-Kuwait Sports Stadium and, unlike MTU,  are veterans of Asian level competition, having won the AFC Cup two years ago.  They won their last match 5-0.

But if anyone needs reminding of what we can do at this level......

New contracts

From the OS:

Muangthong United on Wednesday have reached an agreement to extend a five-year contract each with their six players including Nataporn Panrit, Datsakorn Thonglaow, Panupong Wongsa, Teerasil Dangda, Kawin Thamsatchanan as well as Dagno Siaka for the club’s long-term plan to improving its standart to the continental level.

The chief exclusive of Siamsport Syndicates Company Limited Pongsak Pholanan, the firm who owned the Thai Premier League defending champions revealed that, : “Our main propose to extend contract with these players is the long-term plans for the club to be the top-team of Thailand as well as the Asian continent in the near future, and it would be the guarantee that all six players will belong with us for long time and it also showing that Muangthong United are the professional football club which paying attention to all of our players. I believed that these players have potentials to lead us to the success surely.”

Kilins’ Deputy Chairman Wiluck Lohtong added that : “the contract extending with all of six players have approved by the unanimous resolution from our board of director as well as the staff coaches who want to see all of this players leading this club to meet our long-term goal. Moreover, some of these players have joined with us since we play in the Division 2 and 1. Finally, I can confirmed that, we are still looking to strengthen our squad by signing another top-players soon.”

The report suggested that, Muangthong United have splashed the budget to extend contract with all of six players for around 25 million baht (833,333 USD).

Of course this doesn't guarantee any of the guys will stay out their contract but it does rack up the prices for them, and there are still a lot of clubs sniffing around Kawin. It's also a very good sign of ambition. The only name I noticed missing from a 'wish list' of our top players is Christian.

TOT Vs MTU - Saturday

"To spit on your own fans, please press one......... To move stadium, please press two..........."

TOT are not a well run football outfit. The club moved to Kanchanburi where they acquired good support in a good catchment area, only to move "home" to Cheang Watthana the next year. Once arriving " home" (and not a day beforehand) they realised their stadium was not ready and spent one and a half seasons using the Thunderdome as the pitch of choice.

That 18 months was not enough though and upon leaving, the club had to use Army's ground until their own was ready.

Now the Cheang Watthana stadium is in use but there's one problem before Saturday - it's so small that TOT can only offer 400 tickets to away fans, many of whom will live closer to this ground than the Thunderdome. I can only hope other fans will be able to stand around the unterraced sides of the stadium and that there will be no safety issues.

TOT feature former Quilins target man Kone Muhammed in their ranks. The visitors still face a multitude of injury and fitness issues. Zesh will be out, Nattaporn and Panupong are only in with an outside chance of being ready.

Saturday 1800 (according to MTU OS) @ Cheang Wattahana TOT Stadium.

Casualty:Nattaporn

From the OS:

Muangthong United skipper Nataporn Panrit is getting better following his collapsing during the 2-2 Toyota League Cup last 16 second-leg draw against Kasetsart University FC on Tuesday before has been taken to the hospital urgently.

“He’s getting better now and he has been looked after by doctors closely.” Kilins’ general manager Ronnarit Suewaja insisted. “Today (August 3) the doctors will monitor him meticulously including the causes of his collapsing and his Electrocardiogram, then the result revealed that he is fine but maybe the hot condition has caused him dehydration and then he collapsed.

"Oat" is the second mysterious casualty this season after Miroslav Toth "nearly died" when he collapsed on the day of the Navy game. Nattaporn will be sorely missed as he's been a great captain and excellent rearguard throughout this season and Panupong also seems to be suffering from some tweaks.

Luckily, Zesh is on form and probably benefiting from his rest earlier in the season. As they strive to return to fitness, there could be competition for the second CB slot. Diarra looked much improved in recenntr TLC games and other defenders can also play at CB.

On a brighter note, Zesh Rehman is expecting his first child later this year and is enjoying his time in Thailand.

MTU Vs Buriam PEA - preview part 3

This may be the last blog that many viewers can read. Please check back later for an announcement.

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There will be a pool of talented players lining up against each on Saturday and the game will be won or lost over the entire pitch, but one battle could prove pivotal.......

Buriram's Frank Ohandza has made a very strong impression since joining his new club and away fans will be looking for him to open the somewhat shaken MTU defence this weekend. I predict that he will be up against the man who has shown guts and responsibility during the tough moments so far this season, club captain Nattaporn Pannarit.

In my opinion, Nattaporn is at his best in the air or up against strength-based players. Young Frank is 5ft 9in and plays a pacy and tricky style of attack, somewhat similar to Christian. In fact, it would probably be more suitable for Panupong Wongsa to mark him.

However from the little I've seen, Frank -again, like Christian - likes to drift out right a little. Since Nattaporn usually plays left-sided CB with Wongsa on his right, the two would have to swap positions or let the captain do the honours.

Kayem

If Frank drifts even further right, he will be up against a fellow youngster in left-back Weeawut Kayem. Kayem should be able to match the Cameroonian for pace and he looked very assured against TOT, let's hope he has no mental hangovers from the thumping at Saraburi.

It's an intriguing contest and will, I hope, add to the quality of the game.

*********

Photo credits:
Frank - http://www.thaipremierleague.co.th
Nattaporn -  fat.or.th
Kayem -  Jirawat Srikong

Muangthong United 2 TOT CAT FC 0 - report

****ed if I know what happened, Watson!

It was strange right from the start. Impact Centre's most popular event, the Thailand Motor Show, created evil tailbacks that saw many fans arriving after half time. My taxi driver wisely refused to go too near Muang Thong and told me that: "Mai mee TOT loi", though I couldn't understand the reason he gave. He was right though, I counted a grand total of three (count 'em) TOT shirts in the away end at kick off. I kid you not.

The line up

The team was Kawin (GK), Kayem (LB), Arthit (I think, RB), Wongsa (CB), Nattaporn (Capt, CB), Datsakorn (MD), Siaka (AM), Pitchipong (MD), Issoufau (LW), Christian (RW), Teerasil (ST). No Zesh, no Ahnon.

With half the crowd still stuck in traffic, the kickoff was subdued. TOT looked every bit the side short on confidence and pre-season team building they were. MTU had a free kick within the first five minutes for which every single TOT player dropped back to defend, all but two of them inside their own box. Seconds later, Pitchipong was mauled down by a challenge in which a TOT player had either leg wrapped around Pitchipong on opposite sides. Pitchipong gave a genuine yell of pain as he went down and like most fans I screamed for a red but the ref who was perfectly positioned gave....a free kick and no more. I put it down to a reluctance to effectively lose the match for TOT so early on, but the lack of even a yellow was strange.

MTU went ahead not long after when an excellent dummy, turn and through ball by Dagno found Christian who was one-on-one with time to spare. Gordon Strachan once said only great strikers can keep calm enough to finish off a chance which they have enough time to think about. I guess the flame-haired legend must rate Christian then, as he finished perfectly. One-nil.

It was not long after the goal things got strange. MTU scored at least four goals in this match that to me, looked perfectly legal. We also had two players put through on goal that could have scored but had to stop for the whistle. The first goal disallowed was Christian’s. The second event was a very well timed run by Issofuao that put him clean through. The first goal was disallowed for reasons I don't know by the ref, the second was flagged offside.

Teerasil was tripped, nothing happened.

The ref continued a series of bizarre decisions. On more than one occasion it seemed to be random whistle blowing whenever MTU had the ball. Several tugs, raised elbows and shirt pulls by TOT players went totally unnoticed whereas MTU players were not only penalised every time someone threw themselves down, but also received lectures. Curiouser still, the linesman to the right side of the n-zone called the game perfectly in my opinion, it was the ref and the other linesman performing the surrealism. The last ten minutes of this half were some of the strangest I've seen since Buriram away last season, as any possession in the midfield was stopped by the ref's whistle.

Things threatened to boil over but half time rescued us from the tension. Yet the second half started in a similar way. Christian beat his marker who - while on the ground after missing his challenge - clearly raised both feet and caught Chris with his studs. Chris was hurt but pressed on until the ref blew his whistle.....and gave a free kick to TOT. By now Rob and Calisto couldn't keep quiet and tensions raised again. Things calmed for about ten minutes until another incident at the other end that sparked a scuffle that even the TOT keeper ran up to get involved in, though to his credit he seemed to be telling his players to back off. Credit to Kawin who stayed calm as a cucumber in his own area and looked like he was thinking about how many packs of stickers to buy.

Things were starting to look like they could really boil over and perhaps that managed to stop whatever was causing the bizarre decisions in the game because things calmed down. Still protecting a one-nil lead, MTU passed the ball around and though - as Pattaya fan Glenn tipped me off - TOT had "lots of huff and puff", they had little more. As they were forced to push forward, they created one or two moments of danger but squandered both chances. One striker did attempt a feeble dive that the ref ignored.

No he wasn't booked

Now we were allowed out of our own half, we created a few chances ourselves and finally got rewarded when a two-footed challenge on Teerasil without winning the ball gave the ref little choice but to award a late penalty.In his one notable contribution to the match, Kone Muhammed picked up and kicked the ball into the stands in anger. The linesman saw it and did nothing. Dagno did the honours. Two-nil.

The ref gave us one last memento as a TOT player lost possession near our box and he (the ref) blew and pointed to another player nowhere near the action who was laid on the ground, awarding TOT a free kick, to no avail.

In such David Lynch-like circumstances, it's hard to assess our performance here, but I feel we are still a long way from what we were last season. There's one bright point - as I've been critical of Issoufou Boubacar recently I must say he looked better today. Rather than trying to be too clever, he concentrated on what a simple winger should do and got behind his man and crossed the ball - which he did well more than once. He also tries to win the ball back when he loses it.

But as a whole we looked a little rocked from changes on and off the pitch and lack the intensity of attacking and decision making we had last year. At our core though, we are still almost exactly the same players that came so close to four trophies last year and although it's going to be mightily tough, a win against Buriram PEA next week could change the mindset of both camps quite quickly. If not, then it's probably going to be a season of rebuilding for the future.

Man of the match must again go to Nattaporn Pannarit who - admittedly up against a team that has yet to score - lead by example by giving one hundred percent and never shying away from responsibility.

Photo credits - yep, you guessed it, Jirawat Srikong. If there's a better photographer in Thailand, I'd like to meet him or her.

2011 squad line-up

The OS has not updated its ticket details or squad list in well over one year, so ahead of the new season, here is an unofficial guide from your humble blogger.

Tickets:
Last season cost 80 baht for North or South Stands, 100 baht for the side stands. Expect that to rise about 20-40 baht each this season. Season ticket details here.

The Squad:
Now, because some people refer to players by first name, some by surname and some by nickname, I use whatever I find easiest to remember. So in this list I'll also state how I will refer to them in my match reports.


28. Witsanusak Kaewruang GK "Witty"
Intended to be the new reserve goalie. Signed from Songhkla in close-season.
Most likely to: Get a sore backside.

1. Weera Koedpudsa GK "Weera"
Bangkok United's player of the year. Signed for us close-season. Intended to be long-term replacement for Kawin.
Most likely to: Get dizzy at being above halfway in the league table.

26. Kawin Thamasatchanan GK "Kawin"
Still with us because of his injury. Thailand's best goalie may well leave for bigger things once he gets fit but the silver lining is we may get a few more games out of him.
Most likely to: Ask the ref to stop the game so he can help an old lady cross the road. Nice chap that he is.

3. Toni Kallio LB "Kallio"
Finnish veteran signed close-season. It will be interesting to see how he adapts to the Thai game. Could be a big hit or a quick mistake.
Most likely to: Clatter someone and get a red card. And later, not clatter someone but that someone pretends he did and gets him red-carded again.

4. Panupong Wongsa CB "Panupong"
Highly-rated central defender who won some awards last year.
Most likely to: Get some MOTM awards on this blog.

5. Zesh Rehman CB "Sesh/Zesh"
Highest paid player. A new signing from Bradford. Will the language barrier stop him being the new captain?
Most likely to: Tell me: "Get lost and stop asking me for an interview!".

? Coulibly Abdoul DM/DF "Coulibly"
African deep-midfielder that greatly impressed when he joined midway into last season.
Most likely to: Look like he's about to get broken in half, then win the ball.

6. Nattapron Panarit CB "Nattaporn"
Another MTU veteran defender. Gives 100% every time. Wore the captain's armband after Jetsada got dropped last year.
Most likely to: Do a lot of stuff that goes unnoticed, but is vital.

7. Datsakorn Thonglao MD "Datsakorn"
The master of the long range screamer and a battling mid-fielder. Tremendous to still have him on the books.
Most likely to: Burst the net.

8. Kittipol Paphunga MD "Kittipol"
The very highly-rated Tero player that we bizzarely signed while still injured is supposed to be fit for the new season. Could be a contender for player of the year if he gets back to full fitness.
Most likely to: Have the highest medical insurance bill of the whole squad.

11.Kabfah Boonmatoon MD "Kabbie"
One half of the Osotspa Saraburi signings. Unknown quantity.

14. Issoufou Boubacar Garba MD "No idea"
Nigerian national. Another unknown quantity.
Most likely to: Have me pronounce his name wrong.

15. Ali Diarra DM/MD "Ali"
Ivorian product of the youth team who spent last season at Phuket FC. Name-wise he sounds way too much like Ali Dia for my liking.
Most likely to: Give me nightmare flashbacks of this. Yes, I was there.


16. Jakkraphan Pornsai LW "Jakkaphan"
One of the top signings of the close season. This winger comes highly rated and replaces much-needed pace that we've lost to outgoing players.
Most likely to: Have me raving about "pace".

18. Santi Chaiyaphurk MD "Santa"
Signed from Pattaya United. Not all Pattaya fans were sorry to see him go but he is regarded as having a lot of skill.
Most likely to: Have me grumbling.

19. Pichitphong Choeichiu MD "Pitchipong"
Another veteran mid-fielder that won his place back last season.
Most likely to: Turn up with his hair sprayed some ridiculous colour, with the boots to match.

20. Amorn Thammanarm MD/RW "Ammorn"
Pacy player that was usually on the bench last season.
Most likely to: Come on 15 minutes before the end of the game.

21. Dagno Siaka AM "Dagno/Danny O"
Pronounced "Danny-oh". Needs no introduction. Player of the year.
Most likely to: Take penalties. And score them.

17. Anon Sangsanoi ST "Anon" (until I find another name)
The most exciting close-season arrival. Natural poacher
Most likely to: Score goals! We hope!

10. Teerasil Dangda ST "Teerasil"
Pronounced: "Teera-sin".The target man. You know him.
Most likely to: Change feet then chip the goalie.

9. Miroslav Tóth FW "Toth"
Eastern European player joined from TOT.
Most likely to: Be the easiest player to recognise.

13. Christian Yao Kouakou "Chris/Christian"
Very, very talented player that became a hit last season. It's a pleasant surprise that he will at least be starting the season with us. Could be hugely successful with a little work on his mental approach to the game.
Most likely to: Wind up a player, go down easily, realise he won't get anything, get up, beat two defenders and nutmeg the 'keeper.

Other players that may play a part:
22. DF/MD Naruphol Ar-Romsawa
23. MF Piyapol Bantao
34. MD Paitoon Tiepm
35. LB Weerawut Kayem

TPL awards

Via, the Chonburi site , here are the TPL 2010 awards:

Coach of the Year : Rene Desaeyere  - Muang Thong Utd
Goalkeeper of the Year : Kawin Thamsatchanan - Muang Thong Utd
Defender of the Year : Nattaporn Panrit - Muang Thong Utd
Midfielder of the Year : Therdsak Chaiman - Chonburi
Forward of the Year : Sarayoot Chaikamdee - Thai Port
TPL Top Scorer : Ludovick Takam - Pattaya Utd
Newcomer of the Year : Purithat Jarigarnon - Chonburi

Rumours that Rene promised to flatten everyone at the TFA if he didn't get the award have been greatly exaggerated!
Congratulations to all winners!

Injury worries at the back?

Muangthong may face a minor defensive crisis over the next few games as a recent spate of injuries and other problems take their toll.

Nattaporn "oat" Panrit (pictured right) was taken into an ambulance after the match against Pichit last Thursday, adding to the growing list of unavailable players.

Club captain Jetsada Jitsawad has been notably absent from the first team since the game against Army although I understand injury is not the problem in his case.                                                                              
 

With two regular centre backs unavailable, the next logical choice to partner Panupong would seem to be new boy Coulibly Abdoul (pictured right). Coulibly is actually a deep midfielder but he showed his versatility by playing as centre back against Air Force United and scoring a hat-trick into the bargain. Too bad he is also out, recovering from an operation.

                                                          

Nawapol Tantranseni (pictured left) remains the final option but he seems to have settled into a slightly more attacking role this season.

But even allowing for Nawapol's selection, who would provide emergency cover should another injury or suspension occur? An emergency loan may be an option but at this  stage of the season which clubs would be willing to lend? Dawudah Walumpah of Rajpracha would appear to be an ideal form of cover but it is unlikely Raj would want to risk lending him as they fight for their own survival. Then again, perhaps MTU could find ways of persuasion?

The only other viable choice in my opinion could be Nonthaburi FC, whose season is already over. Former international Janewit Boonsawan (pictured right) would make great cover in my view, but would Rene be willing to gamble on a Division 2 player, albeit an accomplished, respected and experienced one?

Whatever the solution, I have faith in the squad and management of the club to get it sorted. The blip is behind us. Fortress Yamaha remains impregnable. 

                      

Picture credits: Mtutd.tv except Janewit (nonthaburifc.com)

Muangthong United 4 Air Force United 0 - Report

Credit:siamsport.co.th

Muangthong cruised into the quarter finals of the FA Cup with a four-nil win over Air Force United. The visitors did enjoy periods of possession and some good chances of their own, but could not capitalise.

The TPL Champions rested several key players including Kawin, Jetsada, Datsakorn and Teerasil.

The starting line up was Phanphiphat (GK), Pakasit (RB), Nattaporn (Capt, CB) , Panupong (CB), Piyachart (LB), Siaka (MD), Ammorn (MD), Kone (MD/AM), Pitchipong (MD), Christian (RW/FW), Runsiyo (ST)
The first goal came from a clear penalty. Ammorn's footwork caused an Air Force defender to over-commit in the penalty box and bring him crashing down. Siaka converted. The second goal came from a finish on the right hand side of the penalty area from Christian. His relief at scoring after missing a great chance earlier was obvious in his 'double flip and run to the fans' celebration. Half time 2-0.

In the second half AFU enjoyed a lot of possession and with better finishing could have evened things up. Instead Kone swept home a trademark effort into the top left corner of the net and very late on Christian scored a sweet lob over the out-rushing keeper. It was especially satisfying for the young forward as just moments earlier the linesman had flagged Christian offside......in his own half.
Thanks to the Air Force fans for a great atmosphere and hope to see them next season in the TPL. At least we avoided any scenes similar to the ugly incident between Army and Buriram.

Teams already in the quarter finals: Muangthong, Chonburi, Rajpracha, Army FC.


Man of the match:
Nattaporn Panrit lead the back line well and kept out Air Force for much of the second half. Christian and Phanphiphat also had good games.

MTU 4 TOT 0 - Report

"Customer service? I want to make a complaint about your crap defence....."

'Local derby' my farang foot. The crowd today was the lowest I've seen for a league game and TOT carried a very disappointing number of fans with them. Not that this affected business in the club shop, mind. The tills were ringing their merry way as usual with queues going out of the door. Think about the profits we must be making here -  Army FC charge 460 baht for a replica shirt, we sell scarves for almost the same price, and replica shirts for double that.

Meanwhile, in honor of the drab turnout, Rene seemed to name a few fringe and reserve players in the starting lineup:
Kawin (GK) , Piyachart (LB), Jetsada (Capt, CB), Nattaporn (CB), Pitchipong (seemed to be RB), Siaka (DM), Kaewprom (MD), Leesaw (RW), Christian (LW), Rungsiyo (ST) , Teerasil (ST).

An unusual lineup to be sure, but it paid off quickly. After a few minutes Teerasil had a shot blocked and the rebound fell to Pitchipong who hit a good first time effort into the corner, past the blindsided goalie.

The rest of the first half was mostly quiet. TOT had a lot of possession without ever looking like scoring. The second goal came from the unlikely figure of Nattaporn who also scored from a rebound.

Half time 2 - 0

In the second half TOT upped their game and the farang triumvirate became a little more physical and dirty in their efforts to get back in the game. But around the sixty minute mark - from the opposite end of the field - it seemed a clear penalty when our player was bought down in a one-footed challenge that got the player and not the ball. Siaka stepped up and slotted home, though the keeper came very close.

TOT's fate was sealed shortly after as Teerasil controlled well and lashed a right footed effort into the corner from within the TOT area. TOT kept up the work-rate though, Kawin was forced into several good saves late on.

Yaya made an appearance towards the end of the game to a rapture of applause. Leesaw had a quiet game with several good opportunities being skied yet again. Phaitoon Nontadee took over the RB slot in the second half. Former Chonburi player Piyapol Bhantao also appeared once again.

With Buriram dropping points away to Police United (our next opponents) and BG losing to Thai Port, we now just need Chonburi to drop a few more points to set daylight between us and the rest. Here's hoping Saraburi can do us a favour tomorrow.

Man of the match
Could go to either of our centre backs for their tireless work. They kept focus well in the first half and stood up to the physical battle in the second. I'll give it to Jetsada Jitsawad, though Nattaporn was also great.