Wife is fine and Theerathon says his focus is on Indonesia match
NATIONAL full-back Theerathon Bunmathan, after being assured that his sick wife is getting good care from hospital staff and Thai football officials, said that his sole focus is on Wednesday’s match against Indonesia in the first leg of the Asean Football Championship final.
Thai FA boss Somyot Poompanmuang yesterday visited Theerathon’s pregnant wife at Samitivej Hospital after she fell ill just before the defender left for Indonesia on Sunday along with the Thai squad, who are trying to defend their title won two years ago.
“There’s nothing to be concerned about. I consulted the doctor. She is safe and in good hands. I would like Aum [Theerathon’s nickname] and the other players in the team to focus on the match. They should win and make our people happy,” said Somyot.
While expressing his gratitude for the way his wife has been treated, the 26-year-old promised to be at his best at Pakansari Stadium against the hosts, who are bidding to win the regional crown for the first time in five attempts.
“I want to thank the [Thai FA] president and Worapoj Yodsatat [the assistant team manager], who took care of everything since the night before we boarded the plane. Brother Che [Worapoj’s nickname] arranged everything, from finding the room to getting the best doctor.
“I also have to thank [national coach] Kiatisak, his coaching staff and all team-mates for the support, which I truly appreciate. It lessened my worries and allowed me to keep a cool head. Now I am focused on winning the match.
“My wife told me not to worry. She is fighting. She said many times that there’s nothing to worry about. She wants me to concentrate on the job and come home a winner. She’s already getting better. Deep down, I feel for her but I have a job at hand and I have to be focused on the game,” said Theerathon.
Thailand, the tournament’s joint most successful country along with Singapore with four titles, host the return leg at Rajamangala National Stadium on December 17.
