Prachuap: A
PT Prachuap followed up their 2019 League Cup success with a stellar transfer window, catching attention with the signing of Chiangrai United’s talisman, William Henrique. This is Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul’s 4th season with the Killer Wasp and the club know exactly what the head coach has in mind. In someway, Thawatchai’s template is simple; sign big, towering, foreigners for the back-3. Get a target man who can hold up play and dominate the penalty box. Surround said target man with fast, skillful, wide-attackers. And Ta-dah! You got yourself a Thawatchai-dreamteam.
This formula worked wonders in 2018 with Jonatan Reis and Lonsana Doumbouya but not so much with different players in 2019. However, for Thai League 2020, Prachuap turned to more of Thai League proven talents and make use of their SEA slots. Yanto Basna, Soukaphone Vongchiengkham, Baihakki Khaizan and Iain Ramsay all had a fine 2019 and will give Thawatchai plenty of depth and tactical flexibility. Tying goalkeeper, Kwanchai Suklom, on a permanent deal from Buriram United is also another transfer masterstroke. On the whole, a productive window from Prachuap. (Obb)
Police Tero: B-
Promoted alongside BG Pathum United, Tero will be hoping to make a splash upon their return to the big time and remind the fans of the old glory days. While the club’s signings haven’t set the world alight, they do give the Fire Dragons solid hope of survival.
The side have signed Dominic Tan from Malaysian champions JDT on a permanent deal, which already seems like an incredibly smart acquisition with high resale value Ekkachai Samre from Bangkok United and Arthit Boodjinda from Port FC also seem like intelligent and experienced additions to the squad. Just as important are keeping hold of prized assets Thithathorn and Thithavee Aksornsri, the twins who performed excellently for Thailand at the AFC U23 Championships.
However, the side are missing creativity in midfield and failed to secure an extension on their loan deal for Muangthong midfielder Sorawit Panthong. Additionally, their move for Brazilian striker Matheus Alves means that one of either Simon Dia or Greg Houla will have to make way, and their new forward doesn’t seem like a significant upgrade on either. (Gian)
Ratchaburi: C
Some people may feel this grade for Ratchaburi is a bit harsh; after all, they kept their foreign contingent together and added some exciting local creative talent to their squad. While Nurul Sriyankem and Chitpanya Tisud bring flair and creativity to the team, it is hard to see them fit into the side which already hosts attackers Steeven Langil. Yannick Boli, Lossemy Karaboue, Javier Patino and Jakkaphan Pornsai. This attack-heavy side could struggle in terms of organization in other areas of the pitch, which will be all the more worrying if they continue to have the inconsistency in terms of coaching which plagued the side last season.
Their C grade only comes from the logic that having too many parts is better than too few and that their squad depth has significantly improved as a result of their transfer splurge. However, the temptation to try and fit all the parts into a single system, especially in the absence of a coach with a clear vision for the side, the excess of riches the Dragons have accumulated in this transfer window could end up being more of a curse than a blessing. (Gian)
Rayong FC: D
Experience seem to be the key criteria Rayong FC look for, as the club prepare for their debut Thai League season. Goalkeeper Todsaporn Sri-reung arrived with over a hundred top flight appearance under his belt for clubs such as Army United, BEC Tero Sasana, Pattaya United and recently Trat FC. Boosting the attack comes, 2 times FA Cup winner Suppasek Kaikaew, formerly of Bangkok United, Chonburi FC and BG Pathum United and 34 years old playmaker Warut Supphaso. Ball-winning midfielder Decha Sa-ardchom will add competition and act as a decent cover for captain Anuchit Ngoenbukkol. Still, these are mostly players in the later stage of their career. Ones who are probably to just about too good for T2 but not enough to make a difference on the centre stage.
As for foreign imports, keeping T2 top scorer Tiago Chulapa with the team is a huge positive for The Dragon Horses. Thai League veteran, Bireme Diouf, guarantees you a handful of goals, but remember, the striker is turning 36 this year and I wouldn’t bet on him scoring more than ten – at least, not in this Rayong side. Leandro Resida showed glimpses of individual magic during his time with Chainat Hornbill but the ex-VVV-Venlo winger is coming back from a nasty injury, and with joining a new club, one doesn’t expect to see him hit the ground running. If Rayong FC is going to survive, it’ll be down to their collective effort, not one or two outstanding individual. (Obb)
