The Unexpected Landing Spot for Coach Kim Sang Sik's Assistant

Coach Kim Sang Sik's assistant rejected the Vietnam Football Federation's (VFF) offer to renew his contract in order to go to Thailand and serve as the temporary head coach of Kanchaburi Power FC.

Kanchanaburi Power FC, also known by the nickname "Iron Horse," has officially appointed Lee Jung Soo, a former Korean star player, as its new head coach. This strategic move marks the beginning of a new era for the club, as it brings in extensive international experience and an impressive track record to compete in the Thai League.

Lee Jung Soo's arrival is met with high expectations from both the club's leadership and its fans, who are eagerly awaiting signs of his leadership capabilities and tactical thinking.

Coach Lee Jung Soo, born on January 8, 1980, was a prominent defender for Korean football, having played 54 matches for the national team. He gained significant recognition during the 2010 FIFA World Cup by scoring two crucial opening goals in the 2-0 victory over Greece and netting the equalizer in the 2-2 draw with Nigeria.

At the club level, he also achieved considerable success, notably winning the 2011 AFC Champions League with Al-Sadd (Qatar). Throughout his career, he played for major clubs such as Suwon Samsung Bluewings and Kashima Antlers, demonstrating consistent excellence in top-tier Asian football environments.

After retiring, Lee Jung Soo quickly transitioned into a coaching career and soon made his mark. Most recently, he served as an assistant to Coach Kim Sang Sik for the Vietnam national team and the U23 Vietnam team from March 2025 to March 2026.

During this period, he played a key role in Vietnam football's successful phase: contributing to the national team securing a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup finals; at the U23 level, he helped the team win the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship, secure the gold medal at the 33rd SEA Games, and achieve third place at the 2026 U23 Asian Championship.

Lee Jung-soo is particularly praised for his ability to organize set-piece situations, a factor that significantly improved both the attack and defense of the Vietnam national team. Under his involvement, set-piece plays contributed to nearly 30% of the team's total goals.

Coach Kim Sang Sik once remarked: "We studied teams strong in dead-ball situations. Coach Lee focused heavily on organizing defense. He understands the importance of scoring goals, but also places equal emphasis on preventing conceding goals, especially from set-piece situations." Previously, he also had experience as an assistant at Ho Chi Minh City FC.

Kanchanaburi Power FC fans will not have to wait long to see the new coach make his debut.

Lee Jung Soo's first match as the "captain" will be hosting Buriram United on April 26, 2026. This is considered a crucial initial test that will shape the direction and ambitions of the club under its new regime.

At his new club Kanchanaburi Power FC, Coach Lee Jung Soo will mentor several notable players. These include Sergio Aguero, a Malaysian international, 2019 African champion Mehdi Tahrat (who played for the Algerian national team), and notably Andros Townsend, a star who shone in the English Premier League wearing the colors of Tottenham, Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, and Everton.

Overall, Townsend scored 25 goals in the Premier League, including many spectacular strikes against top clubs. The 34-year-old winger has played 13 matches for the England national team, scoring 3 goals.