Nualphan promises hefty bonus for men’s squad

Nualphan Lamsam, manager of the Thai men’s U23 team, has announced a five-million-baht bonus for winning the gold medal at the Vietnam SEA Games.

Nualphan, nicknamed “Madam Pang” by the Thai media, broke the news to the players ahead of their last night’s Group B opener against arch-rivals Malaysia.

Nualphan said the incentive was announced to motivate the players.

“I know very well that everyone has come here to play for the honour of the country and I am also aware of the sacrifices the players make in a big event like this,” added the War Elephants manager.

“So to motivate all the players, I am offering this five-million-baht bonus to add impetus to our push for the gold medal.

“This sum will be in addition to the reward the team will receive from the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) if they win the tournament here in Vietnam.

“It is not going to be an easy…