Anthony Hudson was an assistant to Gregg Berhalter on the U.S. 2022 World Cup team that reached the round of 16 in Qatar after initially joining U.S. Soccer as U-20 national team coach.

He served as interim head coach of the U.S. men’s national team for the first five months of 2023, before becoming head coach of Qatar’s Al-Markhiya SC.

The son of former English international Alan Hudson took charge of Thailand club BG Pathum last February and before becoming the Thailand FA’s technical director. In October, he was named head coach of Thailand’s national team.

On March 28, Thailand beat Turkmenistan, 2-1, to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.

SA: What does it mean to you to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup finals in Saudi Arabia?

ANTHONY HUDSON: It means a lot. For the country, the players and fans, Thailand have to be at the Asian Cup.

SA: What’s it like to coach in Thailand? How are you coping with language, culture and all the other differences?

ANTHONY HUDSON: I love coaching here in Thailand. There is a lot of talent, the players are great to work with, and most importantly, they’re good people. I am learning the Thai language, and it’s very tough, but I’m going to keep going. The culture is incredible here, and the people are amazing. It’s one of the best, if not the best place I have lived, and the kind, respectful, and good people make this place so good. What makes it special is the people and the culture.

SA: Having lived in so many different countries, could you see yourself living in Thailand for a while?

ANTHONY HUDSON: Yes, I would love to. But it’s always hard to plan in football. But yes, I’d love to be here long term.

SA: As a country that isn’t really seen as a soccer country, do you think Thailand has what it takes to change its culture and become a real soccer nation?

ANTHONY HUDSON: I do, yes. Clubs are getting stronger and teams like Buriram are doing very well in the Asian Champions League. Football is definitely progressing here.