Whiff of marijuana prompts Thai FA probe into under-16 team

On Thursday, FA secretary general Pol Lt General Pisan Chuldilok dropped a bombshell while heavily criticising the behaviour of the players, especially the under-16 side, claiming some had been caught smoking and with drugs in their possession. 

“Some of the under-16 players severely breached our code of conduct by smoking and even possessing marijuana. They also stayed up late at night beyond the time permitted and did many other things we deem inappropriate. 

“Previously, we had called in their parents to tell them about their behaviour. Unfortunately, that failed to prevent a repeat of the incidents. Some of them have now been sent back home,” Pisan said of the under-16 side, which suffered a premature exit at the ongoing Asian Championship in India.

Pisan revealed that bad behaviour among the under-19 side also cost coach Chalermwut Sangapol his job.

“Chalermwut lost his post due to the poor disciplinary record of his team. They didn’t turn up on time for training, sometimes arriving an hour later than scheduled. 

“They also failed to dress properly at team meals. Their conduct was in stark contrast to that of the senior team, who strictly abide by the rules.”

That prompted an immediate response from the association, who assured the matter would be dealt with urgently.

“The football association will invite coaches and managers of all national teams to a hearing to seek the truth and evaluate the team,” read a statement signed by FA president Pol General Somyot Poompanmuang.    

“We will be able to provide explaฌ\\nations to the fans, world governing body Fifa and the Asian Football Confederation to try to protect the reputation of our country.”