HÀ NỘI — A place in the V.League top six is Quảng Nam FC’s target after they showed their determination at the recent send-off ceremony.

The team have made some changes to their line-up. Some older players have quit the team and those spots have been filled with quality members.

“Right after the end of the 2016 season, we ended contracts with some players and I brought some potential names here. We have prepared well, especially working on our weakest point in the defence, I believe we will play better in 2017,” coach Hoàng Văn Phúc said.

Among the new members are goalkeeper Nguyễn Minh Phong, defender Đào Văn Phong, midfielders Nguyễn Trung Đại Dương and Thiago. Earlier, the team managers extended contracts with foreign players Claudecir and Diao Sadio, who played a key role in keeping Quảng Nam at No. 5 position last year.

Young players from youth teams are also being promoted to the main team to rejuvenate the central region club.

“If they meet our demands, they can then play at the V.League. We welcome all players who show a thirst for victory and work hard for the development of the team,” Phúc, who is trying to create a team with a balance of senior and junior players, said.

“We have evaluated the balance of power among teams before setting our target of making it to the top six. If there is any chance, we will take it and hope to be one of medallists,” the former national coach said.

Quảng Nam is playing their fourth season at the national premier league. In the first two seasons they were at No. 8. Their elevation to No. 5 last year was a surprise, not only for themselves, but also for all national football lovers.

Quảng Nam will start their V.League tournament playing hosts HCM City FC on January 8 at the Thống Nhất Stadium. — VNS