"I like Thai midfielder Chanathip’s playing style”, Quang Hai said. “If I were to vote for ASEAN’s best lineup, I would choose Dang Van Lam as the best goalkeeper, Do Duy Manh for defense, Chanathip in the midfield, and Supachok Sarachat for the attack.”

Quang Hai and Chanathip are two prominent candidates for the AFF Player of the Year to be announced at the AFF Awards Night in Hanoi on November 8. The Vietnamese midfielder has a good chance of winning after his role in Vietnam becoming AFC U23 runners-up, AFF Cup Champions, and Asian Cup quarter- finalists. 

Quang Hai and Hanoi FC won a triple title: National Super Cup, V-League Cup, and National Cup. Chanathip, on the other hand, didn’t play much for the Thailand national team due to injury. He mainly contributed to his J-League club Consadole Saporro’s advancement to the Emperor's Cup finals.

Coach Park Hang-seo has a good chance of being named AFF Coach of the Year. He turned Vietnam into an ASEAN powerhouse and took the ‘Golden Dragons’ to the final rounds of several regional tournaments.

“In the past two years, Park has done incredible things for Vietnamese football. We played well not only in Southeast Asia but also in Asia," Quang Hai said of his coach.

Vietnam hasn’t been defeated by another ASEAN team since Park’s arrival. They thrashed ASEAN giants Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia in different tournaments.

“Under Park Hang-seo, I ‘ve been impressed by the defensive line. The defenders have played very well, paving the way for our stronger attacks,” Quang Hai added.

Vietnam is now competing in the World Cup 2022 qualifiers. Their 3 matches have resulted in 2 wins and a draw. Vietnam will host UAE on November 14 and Thailand on November 19.