Schaefer might walk away
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Schaefer might walk away

Thailand's 2-0 defeat at Oman on Wednesday not only ended the kingdom's World Cup qualifying campaign but could also lead to the departure of national coach Winfried Schaefer.

Winfried Schaefer.

Thailand's loss was not a surprise judging from their chaotic preparations for the match.

The Thai squad were scheduled to begin their training in Chiang Mai two weeks before the game but only five players joined Schaefer on the flight to the northern city.

With four goalkeepers in the initial squad, only fourth-choice Chatchai Butprom showed up for the first day of training.

This was because most national players play for either Buriram United, Chonburi FC or Muang Thong United.

Buriram United and Chonburi players had to play for their clubs while Muang Thong reportedly refused to release their stars to the national side.

Reports claimed Muang Thong wanted their men to train with the club although the new season is still weeks away.

Four players also missed the initial flight to the Middle East because they forgot to bring their passports to the airport.

And worse was to come as Schaefer only knew just before the Oman game that Sompop Nilwong was not available because the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) had not registered him for the contest.

After the match, Schaefer was so upset he criticised the FAT for its poor management and lack of professionalism.

The German coach said there must be changes to the way the FAT is run if Thailand are to move up to another level but FAT president Worawi Makudi said he could not be held responsible for the problems as there are officials overseeing each assignment.

"Does the FAT president have to do everything?" he shot back at one reporter.

One may wonder what is the FAT chief's job description.

After the squad returned to Thailand, Schaefer revealed that he has received offers from Middle East sides and said he would make a decision over the next few days over where he sees his future.

Worawi then promised to get rid of unproductive officials and bring in professionals but he has said this on several occasions and things seem to remain the same.

With such poor management, it would not be a surprise if Schaefer decides to quit as coach of the Thai national team after just one year.

Having coached Cameroon and Middle East clubs, the German is quite well known on the international stage and it would not be too difficult for him to find a new job.

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