Goalkeeper Văn Lâm expressed significant remarks as he rejoined the Vietnam national team following over a year of absence.
On the afternoon of October 5th, the Vietnam national team held their first training session at Bình Dương Stadium to prepare for two crucial upcoming matches against Nepal in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. The player chosen to speak with the media was Đặng Văn Lâm. The overseas Vietnamese goalkeeper attracted considerable attention after returning to the national team for the first time in over a year.
Talking about the long period away from the national team, Văn Lâm candidly said: "After a long time, I have returned to the Vietnam national team, but it feels like it all happened just yesterday. Everything and everyone feels very familiar, and I am extremely happy to reunite with my teammates. I will strive and dedicate myself fully to the team.
"Last night, I had dinner with the whole team. Coach Kim Sang-sik and I also met, exchanged greetings, and checked on each other’s health in a very pleasant atmosphere. Now, the entire team is very excited about this training camp and will focus intensely to achieve the upcoming goals of the Vietnam national team."
In this training camp, Đặng Văn Lâm will compete for the starting goalkeeper position against two younger players, Trung Kiên (born 2003) and Văn Việt (born 2002). Regarding this competition, Văn Lâm answered honestly: "Like previous camps, this one also gathers the best talents from across the country. The three goalkeepers will support each other during training and matches. The final decision on who starts will belong to the head coach.
Starting today, the entire team will officially work directly on the training field. The head coach will have enough time to assist and mentor the younger players. As for the upcoming opponent Nepal, we currently do not have much detailed information. In the coming period, the team will analyze video footage and hold tactical meetings thoroughly to find the most effective playing style and approach for the match."
The last time Văn Lâm was called up to the Vietnam national team was for the 2024 AFF Cup, but he missed out due to injury. After a long period without call-ups, Văn Lâm finally convinced coach Kim Sang Sik thanks to his impressive performance with Ninh Bình club.