FRIDAY, March 29, 2024
nationthailand

Don’t peddle rumours, football chief tells media over hiring Japanese coach

Don’t peddle rumours, football chief tells media over hiring Japanese coach

Football Association of Thailand (FAT) president Somyot Poompanmoung has urged media not to jump to conclusions following rumours that former Japan football team manager Akira Nishino had turned down an offer to manage Thailand’s national team.



On Monday, the Thai FA had released news that the former Japan national player had agreed to coach the national senior and under-23 teams, along with a picture of Somyot and Nishino shaking hands.
However, rumours spread on social media on Wednesday morning that the 64-year-old had issued a denial to Japanese media about taking up the offer.
Somyot urged local media to be more prudent with their coverage. Somyot said on Tuesday that the Thai FA and Nishino had reached an understanding but the contract was still being drawn up.
“Akira is a very clear-headed person,” said FAT president Somyot. “He will only say yes if things have been completed. I believe it’s Japanese culture,” he added.
“So, please do not jump to conclusions because of a report. I personally believe that what is in the news is not the fact,” Somyot said.
The Thai FA chief also insisted that he had sought permission from Nishino to release the news of their agreement and the picture of them shaking hands after a marathon meeting that went on for around four hours on Monday.
“The news release from the Thai FA is based on talks and a verbal agreement. He said he was okay with that. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have risen up to shake my hand for an FAT official to take a photo. To jump to a conclusion without clear information could lead to undesirable consequences. I better not talk much as things may get blown out of proportion, which may affect the feelings of both parties, as talks will still continue.
“Whatever happens, the Thai FA will go on, Thai football will move forward, one way or the other. Let go, whatever will be, will be. It’s the football way,” Somyot said.

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