SLNA players train in preparation for the upcoming V.League 1 season. — Photo SLNA FC

Football

HÀ NỘI Big spenders Sông Lam Nghệ An (SLNA) are banking their investments pay off this season, and are targetting a top three finish in V.League 1.

Before last season was scrapped because of the pandemic, SLNA were in real danger of relegation.

But after a big investment from Tân Long Group, they have made some quality signings and are hoping for great things this time around.

“All preparations for the team's force, speciality and spirit for the 2022 season have been completed,” said coach Nguyễn Huy Hoàng.

“SLNA are ready to compete with the highest determination in every match. My players and I will make every effort to finish the season in the top three.”

SLNA have brought in many new faces like defender Quế Ngọc Hải and midfielder Nguyễn Trọng Hoàng from Viettel, as well Ghanaians Nana Paku, and Abdul Basi as well as Mark O'Ojong of Cameroon.

Defender Hải said: “All the players are looking forward to the new season. We will fight hard, bring love back to SLNA fans, and try to complete the goal of being in the top three, regardless of the expectations of the fans".

Hoàng added: “I and other players, who have just returned to our hometown team from different clubs, want to bring experience and togetherness with the young players and the coaching staff to accomplish our goal.

“To compete for the title, the team need many different factors, not just money. We will try to have a reasonable strategy in every match to get the best results in the upcoming season.”

In this year’s tournament, both SLNA and Bình Định have strong potential, and are tipped to rival Hà Nội FC, Viettel and Hoàng Anh Gia Lai in the race for the championship.

Trương Sỹ Bá, SLNA’s chairman said: “We are determined and hope that SLNA will continue to receive the support of fans and one day we will hold the position which we had in the past. That is to be among the strongest teams in the domestic event before aiming for further goals.”

SLNA will be led by head coach Hoàng, with two main assistants Phạm Văn Quyến and Phan Như Thuật. The team will play against Bình Dương in the opening match on February 25. VNS