Striker Nguyễn Xuân Son trains with his teammates to prepare for the match against Laos in Group F of the qualifying round of the 2027 Asian Cup. — Photo vietnamnet.vn

Football

HÀ NỘI — After nearly a year on the sidelines, naturalised striker Nguyễn Xuân Son is fired up for a return to action as Việt Nam prepare to face Laos in Group F of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.

"Today is a special day because I have returned to the Vietnamese national team after 11 months away. I am very happy to be back wearing the national team jersey after such a long time. My family has supported me a lot,” Son said while gathering with the national team in Phú Thọ Province on Tuesday ahead of the match.

Although he has not yet officially played for Nam Định Club, the Brazilian-born forward has fully recovered and is eager to contribute. He affirmed that he is ready to play and unafraid of the risk of re-injury.

“This time is just like the last. My teammates are happy to see me back. I told coach Kim Sang-sik and my teammates how grateful I am for their patience. I am ready to play and have fully recovered, capable of completing a whole match without fear of injury.”

Despite his 11-month absence from the pitch, Son has maintained the same physical condition and calm confidence as when he first represented the national side.

Without fanfare or showboating, he has been entirely focused on training with his teammates. The strength and resilience of the naturalised player have made it challenging for many to keep up.

Coach Kim has every reason to trust Son – a true warrior who has not only returned but done so in peak condition.

Son’s comeback is crucial for coach Kim, who currently faces a shortage of quality attacking options. For his part, Son is full of enthusiasm about the chance to play.

“Right now, I am ready to give my best performance. I am working hard to regain my form. I don’t know how likely I am to play in the Laos match, as it depends on coach Kim’s decision. I am always ready to play a full match, not just against Laos but in future games as well.

“If I get the opportunity to play against Laos, I will embrace it. I’ll strive to score or assist, but the most important thing is for the Vietnamese team to win. I want to express my gratitude for all the support. I love the Vietnamese jersey and will give my all.”

Son holds the record for the most goals in a single season, with 31 goals, helping Nam Định FC win the 2023/24 V.League 1. He was named best foreign player at the 2024 Việt Nam Golden Ball Awards. In his first tournament representing Việt Nam at the 2024 ASEAN Cup, he was the team's top scorer and voted best player.

The Vietnamese team currently have nine points, ranking second behind Malaysia. Coach Kim and his squad will train for four days in Phú Thọ before travelling to Laos for their match against the Lao team on November 19. — VNS