Thailand announced the appointment of Anthony Hudson as the new head coach of its men’s soccer team on Wednesday, following the dismissal of Japanese coach Masatada Ishii the previous day.
Hudson, who briefly served as the interim coach of the U.S. men’s national team in 2023, has been the director of technical development for Thailand’s soccer association since last year.
“We need a leader who has a deep understanding of Thai football at this pivotal moment,” said Nualphan Lamsam, president of the association. “Anthony Hudson has been involved with the organization at various levels and brings a wealth of international experience.”
At 44 years old, Hudson previously coached New Zealand between 2014 and 2017, resigning shortly after a loss to Peru in the intercontinental playoff for the 2018 World Cup.
He is the son of the former Chelsea legend Alan Hudson and led the MLS‘ Colorado Rapids from late 2017 until May 2019.
Hudson took on the role of interim coach for the USMNT after Gregg Berhalter’s contract expired at the end of 2022, achieving a record of 2-1-2 in five matches before leaving in May 2023 to pursue an opportunity in Qatar.
Hudson’s debut match as Thailand’s coach will be a 2027 Asian Cup qualifier against Sri Lanka in November, where Thailand currently sits second in Group D. Only the group winner qualifies for the tournament in Saudi Arabia.
This report includes information from The Associated Press.