Ratchaburi FC have snapped up another signing ahead of the Thai League restart, completing a move for central defender Sarawut Kanlayanabandit who had recently been released by Samut Prakan City FC.
Ratchaburi have further strengthened their defense with the acquisition of 29-year-old center-back Saraqut Kanlayanabandit, who arrives on a free transfer after recently being released by Samut Prakan City FC.
Sarawut had an impressive season last year for the Sea Fang, developing as a left-sided center-back in the side’s 3-4-3 system. His imposing 6-foot plus frame already made him a strong aerial presence, and he developed his ability on the ball immensely under the possession-orientated system of coaches Surapong Kongthep and Tetsuya Murayama.
However, with the side reverting to a back-four under new coach Masatada Ishii, Sarawut found himself behind Aris Zarifovic and Jakkaphan Praisuwan, as well as new signings Tatsuya Sakai and Nattaphon Malapun, in the pecking order. As such, the 29-year-old was left out of all four of Samut Prakan City’s opening games this season.
Likely to be a backup to Ratchaburi’s current central defensive pairing of South Korean defender Yeo Sung-Hye and Thai international Pawee Tanthatemee, Sarawut brings plenty of experience to his new side with over 100 Thai League appearances under his belt and adds much-needed depth in a crucial area for the Dragons.
This is Ratchaburi’s second signing of the mid-season window, after securing a deal for 23-year-old striker Sittichok Kannoo from Bangkok United. However, the side have mostly worked on keeping their squad together, hoping to build on their impressive start of four wins from four when the league resumes next month.