FIFA issues ruling on former Chelsea player representing Thailand national team

The Football Association of Thailand reported that FIFA has verified Jude Sunsap Belle’s eligibility to represent the "War Elephants" from the November FIFA Days.

"FIFA has issued a certificate confirming that Jude Sunsap Belle is eligible to compete for the Thailand national team", The Football Association of Thailand has just released the latest update.

Previously, the president of the Football Association of Thailand surprised many by confirming that young forward Jude Soonsup-Bell would join the national team during the November FIFA window. Jude Sunsap Belle was included in the Thailand squad announced on the afternoon of November 6 for the match against Sri Lanka.

Jude Soonsup-Bell (21 years old) was born in England to an English father and Thai mother. He represented England’s youth teams from U15 to U19 between 2019 and 2021, before playing for prestigious academies such as Chelsea (2021/22 season), making his first team debut in the Carabao Cup against Brentford. In 2023, he transferred to Tottenham Hotspur. Currently, he plays for Grimsby Town in England’s League Two (fourth tier).

According to the Football Association of Thailand, FIFA has sent a certificate and official documentation confirming Jude Sunsap Belle’s eligibility to represent the Thailand national team in matches organized by both AFC and FIFA. He is eligible to play starting from the friendly against Singapore on November 13.

Jude’s inclusion is expected to bring fresh energy to Thailand’s attack, alongside key players like Supachai Chaided and Ekanit Panya. Many fans believe this could mark the beginning of a “hybrid generation” blending Thai identity with European strength to elevate the “War Elephants” regionally and aim for the 2030 World Cup.

Related articles

'Elbow king' denies rumors of conflict with teammates in Thailand national team Theerathon clarified that he has never had any issues with Jonathan Khemdee. See more