VietNamNet Bridge – Thai sports authorities have moved this week’s Asian Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup, from Bangkok to the southern island of Phuket to avoid the political crisis in the capital.

“There’s too much trouble in Bangkok, so we’ve decided to switch the venue,” Thai football chief Worawi Makudi said last Saturday.

“All parties have agreed, this is the best solution to the problem and Phuket is a very suitable alternative.”

He added that Phuket - not affected by the crisis - is easily accessible. Worawi also said he would guarantee the safety of players and officials during their time in Phuket. The decision to move the event was made late last Saturday after a two-day meeting of regional sports authorities.

Representatives of the AFF inspected the Phuket stadium and were satisfied with preparations to move the championships. Thailand are co-hosting the fiercely-contested biennial tournament, beginning on Friday, with Indonesia.

Phuket will now host Group B, comprising Thailand, Laos, Viet Nam and Malaysia, while Indonesia, Cambodia, Myanmar and last year’s winners Singapore will contest Group A in Jakarta.

The provincial 15,000-seat Sarakul Stadium is recognised by FIFA to meet international standards.

The AFF decision to move to Phuket ended Viet Nam’s hopes of hosting group B matches.

“As a member of the AFF, the Viet Nam Football Federation (VFF) respects the decision to move the event to Phuket, and will do everything in our power to make the event a success,” said VFF chairman Nguyen Trong Hy.

(Source: VNS/REUTERS)