Tran Tien
Football Tribe Vietnam
Vietnamese national team boss Park Hang-seo has developed a reputation for sticking with and trusting his chosen core of players. However, the Korean tactician has opted to call up two new players for his 2019 King’s Cup squad, as his side travel to Buriram, Thailand.
Nguyen Van Toan, 20, GK, Hai Phong
After having been called up to U23 Vietnam squad for the AFC U23 Championship qualifiers in March, Van Toan had been in great form in V.League, starting nine matches as the first choice goalkeeper at Hai Phong FC. At the age of 20, Van Toan deserves to have the chance in Vietnam NT this King’s Cup.
Tran Van Kien, 23, DF, Hanoi FC
Van Kien has been played for Hanoi since the 2016 season. From 2017 up until now, he has been the first choice right back of the defending V.League champions. He was included in U22 Vietnam squad for the 2017 SEA Games. However, after that tournament, a heart condition tragically prevented him from progressing to the senior team. However, before the King’s Cup, he has been deemed fully fit to play for the national team on this occasion. This is the first time he has been called up to the senior national team.