Football Season Guide

Were promoted from Thai League Two last season after finishing behind their bitter rivals, Rasisalai United. It was touch and go as their form at the end of the season was quite poor, but they did just enough to finish ahead of Pattani FC thanks to their iron defence. They've sought to improve their already impressive defence pre-season too, largely because defensive leader Dae-hee Kwon left, bringing in the likes of Honny, Paibulkijcharoen, and Jaiphet. There's a lot of quality and experience in their back line now, and it will be instrumental for them in the battle against relegation. Attack is a bigger concern. Last season's leading goal-scorer Veloso left, and so did winger Langil, both of which impacts their ability to create chances and score goals. Fortunately, they responded well to this situation. May have taken punts on the likes of Fernandes, but Kannoo and Darbellay (assuming they deploy him as a winger rather than FB) are experienced in Thai League One, and should prove to be good additions. Doucoure was their biggest acquisition, and is expected to be the new Veloso. Jefinho is their most recent addition in attack, but little is known about him. Their biggest signing was that of midfielder Patrick Valverde, who impressed in the Asian Champions League 2 with Tai Po last season. With Hanrattana and Matsui also having joined, there's a good chance their midfield will be able to operate at a higher level this season. Out of all of the newly-promoted clubs, they've recruited the best, and should be able to start their campaign strongly. It's not guaranteed, but they've given themselves a good shot at avoiding immediate relegation from Thai League One with this group.