“When Bangkok’s two airports were closed due to the demonstrations, Phuket was the best alternative location for the matches,” AFF Vice President Dato Yap said Thursday. “However, now that the city has regained order and the airports are operational again, the matches should be played there because the facilities and conveniences in the capital are superior to Phuket for the welfare of fans and members of the press.”

It is obvious that organizers are under pressure from the World Sport Group (WSG) and sponsors as Phuket doesn’t attract as much interest from fans as Bangkok. “Of course sponsors prefer Bangkok over Phuket,” Yap said.

“When Bangkok is back to normal, we certainly want matches to be played there because more people will know about the sponsors’ brands,” WSG managing member Brian Chaw said.

Vietnam Football Federation General Secretary Tran Quoc Tuan said Thursday: “We are still discussing the matter. I always want the best course of action for the Vietnamese team.”

Reported by Quang Huy