Thailand has appointed Anthony Hudson, the former interim coach of the U.S. men’s soccer team, as the new coach for its men’s soccer team as of Wednesday. This decision follows the dismissal of Japanese coach Masatada Ishii. Hudson has been with the Thailand Football Association as the director of technical development since last year.

In a statement, Nualphan Lamsam, president of the association, emphasized the importance of having someone well-versed in Thai football at this pivotal time. “At this crucial time, we need someone who understands Thai football thoroughly. Anthony Hudson has worked with the association at every level and has extensive international experience,” Lamsam stated.

Hudson brings experience from coaching New Zealand from 2014 to 2017. He resigned shortly after they lost an intercontinental qualifying playoff to Peru for the 2018 World Cup.

His inaugural match will be a 2027 Asian Cup qualifier against Sri Lanka next month. Thailand is currently placed second in Group D, which consists of four teams, with only the group winner set to advance to the tournament in Saudi Arabia.