In a short period of time, Kim Sang Sik has been handed a series of positive developments regarding squad personnel, with several high-quality naturalized players now available to represent Vietnam in upcoming tournaments.

Following the impressive emergence of Hoang Hen, who delivered two standout performances, Vietnam are also expected to welcome Nguyen Tai Loc (Geovane) and Do Phi Long (Gustavo), strengthening both attack and defense. Goalkeeper Patrick Le Giang is another name in the frame.

These additions not only improve the overall quality of the squad but also increase competition in positions that have long lacked reliable alternatives. In other words, Vietnam’s depth is being reinforced in a significant and meaningful way.

With a deeper and more competitive squad, supporters have every reason to believe Vietnam can challenge strongly at the ASEAN Cup, the FIFA ASEAN Cup and the Asian Cup early next year.

However, the player Kim Sang Sik may be waiting for most is neither a naturalized footballer nor an overseas Vietnamese talent. Instead, it is Doan Ngoc Tan, who has made a strong return after injury while playing for Thanh Hoa.

Doan Ngoc Tan’s valuable comeback

In several recent matches, Vietnam have struggled whenever opponents increased the tempo or attacked directly in transition. The midfield has often lacked a player capable of winning physical battles and breaking up those rapid shifts in momentum.

Without an effective shield in front of the defense, the entire system can lose its shape and become vulnerable, often leading to avoidable goals.

That is why the return of the Thanh Hoa midfielder may not generate the same media attention as the arrival of naturalized players, but it carries enormous tactical value for the national team.

Following his recovery, Doan Ngoc Tan quickly rediscovered his form. His performances once again reflect the qualities that define his game - relentless work rate, aggressive ball-winning ability and a constant presence in critical areas of the pitch, helping the team function with greater stability.

Most importantly, he brings balance to the midfield. With Doan Ngoc Tan in the lineup, creative players such as Hoang Duc, Quang Hai and Hoang Hen are given more freedom to express their technical strengths. The defensive line also benefits from reduced pressure, knowing there is a midfielder willing to engage physically, recover possession and restore the team’s defensive structure.

In modern football, an effective pressing system requires a defensive midfielder who is both mobile and full of energy. With Doan Ngoc Tan back in action, Vietnam may finally have the solution to a tactical problem that has persisted for much of the past year.

Duy Nguyen