Hai Duong-born striker Toan can play in K.League 1

Striker Nguyen Van Toan (left) is believed to be good enough to play in Asian leagues. Photo of Hoang Anh Gia Lai FC

The South Korean trainer said many Vietnamese players are good and some can play in higher-class tournaments abroad in South Korea and some other leagues in Asia like (Nguyen Cong) Phượng and Toan of Hoang Anh Gia Lai. They have showed their progress in terms of technique and physique.

“Personally I believe player No 9 Van Toan can play in the K.League 1. He really impresses me,” said Kim at the press-briefing on Thursday.

Toan performed impressively in the first two matches of Hoang Anh Gia Lai against Yokohama Marinos and Sydney FC. Although he did not score but made challenges to these teams’ defence and received praise from his coach Kiatisuk Senamuang.

In respond to Kim’s comments, Toan said: “It is an honour to be appreciated. It is an encouragement to me during this time when I have lost my peak and felt unconfident.”

“I am working hard and try to get back to the best at the Champions League,” said Toan.

“Playing abroad is a dream of all players. My contract with Hoang Anh Gia Lai will go to the end this year. However, at present I just want to stay focused on this tournament and showing my abilities.

“My teammates and I want to tell everybody that we are not here for friendly matches and go home. We strive for individual game although Jeonbuk is one of Asian top clubs. Hope that we will have better performance against them,” he said.

Coach Kiatisuk also supported his players to go out if receiving an offer.

He said Hoang Anh Gia Lai wanted its players to go abroad to lift Vietnamese football level. The AFC Champions League is a platform for his players to introduce themselves internationally.  

“We will show everything is us here and it would be great if scouts pick some players. Previously, none knew about Hoang Anh Gia Lai. Now, they do,” Kiatisuk said.

The Thai football legend said he shared his experience when playing oversea for his players and asked them to be ready to receive offers.

About the Hai Duong-born player, he said: “Toan can play well in Southeast Asia region and some Asian countries. He owns good speed, technique and fitness. When going out, he would learn a lot and develop more.”

VNS