HOT: Former Premier League star joins Vietnam national team

Former South Korean international Kim Do Heon has officially become a member of the Vietnam national team's coaching panel to support manager Kim Sang Sik in the forthcoming competitions.

The Vietnam national team has just received a notable addition to its coaching staff, as former South Korean player Kim Do Heon officially joins the assistant team for head coach Kim Sang Sik. The arrival of the 43-year-old strategist is expected to provide the squad with high-quality professional resources during preparations for the 2026 ASEAN Cup and other important objectives in the future.

Kim Do Heon is no stranger to Asian football fans. During his playing days, the former midfielder, born in 1982, was regarded as one of South Korea's brightest stars. He earned 62 caps for the national team, scored 12 goals, and participated in the 2006 World Cup. With his ability to control the game, sharp tactical thinking, and strong technical foundation, Kim Do Heon was a key figure in South Korea's golden generation of the early 2000s.

A major highlight of Kim Do Heon's playing career was his time in Europe. He played for West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League during the 2008/09 season, making 25 appearances. Additionally, he left his mark on the K.League while playing for Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma, Suwon FC, and Police FC. Notably, Kim Do Heon was selected for the K.League Best XI for four consecutive seasons.

After retiring, the former midfielder quickly transitioned into coaching. He worked at Suwon Samsung Bluewings, Chengdu Rongcheng in China, and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. At Jeonbuk, Kim Do Heon served as interim head coach, gaining further experience in South Korea's top-tier football environment.

One of the key reasons Kim Do Heon joined the Vietnam national team is his close relationship with head coach Kim Sang Sik. The two were former teammates at Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma as well as on the South Korean national team. Their shared understanding of football philosophy and work methods is expected to enable effective collaboration as they build the Vietnam national team.

The addition of Kim Do Heon demonstrates the determination of the VFF and coach Kim Sang Sik to enhance the quality of the coaching staff. With extensive international playing experience, including stints in the Premier League, and professional work in various environments, the South Korean assistant is expected to bring fresh ideas on tactics and player development. This is seen as a quality reinforcement for the Vietnam national team's journey to defend the ASEAN Cup 2026 title.