Suphanburi FC
Suphanburi have gone from upstarts to also-rans in a tumultuous seven years in the top tier. They were ambitious and exciting when they burst onto the scene with a fourth-place finish in 2013, but they have been rather underwhelming since hitting the peak of finishing third in 2015. They would have been in T2 this year had PTT Rayong not saved their skin by withdrawing from the Thai League. There hasn’t been sufficient investment to hope for much more than another relegation battle this year.
Head coach – Adebayo Gbadebo
Adebayo Gbadebo knows the club inside out having been with them in various roles since 2012. Now in his second stint as head coach, the Nigerian certainly knows how to set up his sides to make them difficult to beat. However, he will need to find another gear to ensure his team can win enough games to stay out of trouble rather than just grinding out draw after draw.
Key players
Suphan Thongsong (CENTRE-BACK) – The skipper was widely linked with a move back to former club Muang Thong United, but it seems that the War Elephant have kept their man. The Thailand international will play a vital role in keeping the defensive unit solid and he also has the versatility to play the holding role in midfield if necessary.
Eliandro (STRIKER) – Despite a season at Chiang Mai FC that ended in relegation last year, Eliandro stood out as the club’s top performer. He has a robust presence, and his smart movement allows him to get on the end of chances and create space for others. He will have to deliver goals if Suphanburi are to thrive.
Rising star
Meechok Marhasaranukun (RIGHT BACK) – The Thailand U23 international has been showing his potential in fits and starts since breaking through at TOT in 2015. The 22-year-old has not achieved the consistency to make himself a regular starter at Port FC or Suphanburi. However, Meechok has undoubted talent and he may now have the right level of experience to really make himself an indispensable member of the team.
Notable former players
Sutee Suksomkit, Sergio Van Dijk
What’s to like?
Suphanburi’s ‘Wall of Noise’, though less common in recent years, is a sight to behold when the stadium is packed. Definitely a stadium experience to be enjoyed when there is a big game.
