Vietnamese footballer added to Guardian's top 40 list

October 15, 2014 | 15:48

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A Vietnamese name, Phann Thanh Hau, was included on the Guardians list of promising football players, Next generation 2014: 40 best young talents in world football.

Born in 1997, Thanh Hau, of Hoang Anh Gia Lai Arsenal - JMG Academy, was rated higher than Cong Phuong, captain of the team.

Phan Thanh Hau (No. 11) was rated higher than Cong Phuong (No. 10).

The Guardian said: "Vietnam are becoming a serious player in Asian youth football, with a recent 5-1 win over Australia further evidence of their progress. According to the coach of South Korea, preparing to defend their Under-19 title, Vietnam are one of the favorites. Phan Thanh Hau is the heartbeat of their midfield, always available and ready to spray passes short and long and to use a deft first touch to create space for a lovely left-foot to sprise open opposition defenses. He currently plays for an academy in his homeland built by Arsenal, JMG Academy and a Vietnamese company. His next move is either to the V-League or Europe."

However, Thanh Hau's addition to the list raised eyebrows among many Vietnamese fans, as within the country Cong Phuong is favoured in popularity out of all Vietnamese Under-19 players. As far as midfiels, Tuan Anh and Xuan Truong would precede Thanh Hau in stature, according to many Vietnamese fans.

The issue gained traction as a result of the clip attached on the Guardian showing Cong Phuong and Tuan Anh scoring instead of Phan Thanh Hau.

In response to public questions, John Duerden, Asia football correspondent for BBC Radio, Guardian, ESPN & World Soccer, posted on Twitter: "The player I chose is Phan. I didn't choose any clip."

Dtinews

What the stars mean:

★ Poor ★ ★ Promising ★★★ Good ★★★★ Very good ★★★★★ Exceptional