Midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải scored a superb goal against Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh. — Photo thethaovanhoa.vn

HÀ NỘI — Midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải of Hà Nội Police is inline to make a remarkable return to the Vietnamese national team, fuelled by his recent rise to the top of the domestic top scorer list.

Following his superb goal against Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh on Sunday, Hải now leads the list of domestic top scorers in the V.League 1 2023-24 season with five goals and one assist. This is excellent news for coach Philippe Troussier and the national team.

In his last two consecutive matches, where coach Kiatisuk Senamuang handed Hải the captain's armband, he made a significant impact scoring crucial goals. In the match against Thanh Hóa, his goal extended the lead to 2-0 in a 3-1 victory. And against Hà Tĩnh, his stunning goal saved Hà Nội Police from a defeat on their home turf, Hàng Đẫy Stadium. Hải's outstanding performance also impressed coach Troussier, who was present in the stands that day to observe the Vietnamese players.

Hải, who won the Vietnamese Golden Ball award in 2018, said he had regained his motivation to compete, partly thanks to getting married. Besides, he said that the motivation to contribute to the national team is also a reason why he is more determined.

"I'm trying to get back to my best form. I always tell myself to work hard and never give up to have good health and fitness," Hải said.

During the V.League 1 2023 season, Hải, after returning from Pau FC, did not contribute significantly to Hà Nội Police's championship campaign. He played seven matches and scored one goal in the 3-0 win over Thể Công Viettel last August.

However, this season, despite missing the first three matches due to injury, Hải immediately made an impact upon his return by scoring consecutive goals in away matches against Hải Phòng and Nam Định last November. In addition to his goal against Bình Dương and his assist against Khánh Hòa, Hải has contributed to a total of six goals in eight club matches this season.

Hải now leads the list of domestic top scorers in the V.League 1 2023-24 season with five goals. — Photo thethaovanhoa.vn

These statistics are undeniably impressive for a player who had a period of inconsistency after spending time on the bench in France. Observing Hải's recent performances, fans can see that he has regained his confidence and the fine touch he displayed during his peak. Positioned as the left striker in Hà Nội Police's tactical scheme, he showcases his versatility and elegance, often delivering dangerous passes and finishing with finesse.

In his second season with Hà Nội Police, Hải has become well-acquainted with the team's playing style and his fellow teammates. Playing alongside familiar faces from the national team such as Vũ Văn Thanh, Hồ Tấn Tài, Bùi Hoàng Việt Anh, as well as former teammates like Geovane Magno, has undoubtedly contributed to Hải feeling more at ease on the pitch.

In a season dominated by foreign strikers, Hải's five goals and one assist shine brightly as a rare accomplishment.

In March, the Vietnamese national team will face two crucial matches against Indonesia in the World Cup qualifiers. Indonesia have recently strengthened their team through the naturalisation of European footballers. Hải eagerly anticipates regaining his form and shining while wearing the Vietnamese national team jersey. VNS