LÖNNSTRÖM APPOINTED POLICE UNITED HEAD COACH - Q&A SESSION

You have just been appointed as the new head coach of Thai Premier League side Police United. What are your first thoughts after signing the contract?

"Excellent. I feel privileged to be here right now. To take charge of one of the oldest and most known clubs in Thailand feels incredible. I am full of positive energy and I can’t wait to get started to steer the club to success."

Police United currently lie 17th in Thailand’s Premier League table. Have you and the management had time to set your goals for the rest of the season?

"First of all the team needs to start playing at a higher level, which we all know they are capable of. Obviously more points are needed to secure a place in mid-table by the time the the season ends."

You left First Division side Roi Et United to coach the Police forces. What kind of experiences and memories did you gain from Eastern Thailand?

"I learned a lot in Roi Et and I am grateful for everybody who made it possible. Leaving the club and the city wasn’t easy but I think this was the right time to open a new chapter in my life and in my career."

What are your thoughts if you compare Thailand’s First Division and the Premier League?

"The level of football is pretty similar between the two leagues. Club organisation and management are probably the biggest differences, but it is still the same game even if the scenery changes a bit.

"The most important thing is to get to know my players, other staff members and the upcoming opponents as soon as possible."

Will you continue to work for the U16 national team of Thailand?

"I am still working for the team as an assistant coach. Let’s see how things go on from here."

How well do you know the players in the current team and are you still looking to strengthen the squad during this season?

"I met the players with the coaching team at the beginning of this week and today we had the first training session together, so my knowledge is still limited.

"It’s still too early to say anything about bringing in any reinforcements. But we will know more after the first couple of games when everyone has had the chance to prove themselves."

What type of football do you want Police United to play with you at the helm?

"CAAF - Creative Attacking Attractive Football. The team will play direct attacking football with high pressing."

Thai football is rather exotic from a European perspective. What made you take the step there originally?

"I had experienced all levels of Finnish football and I felt that to learn more about the profession and to experience new things I had to leave. The only way to develop as a coach is to leave your comfort zone, so in that sense Asia was a tremendous opportunity."

You are also famous in Thailand for your sharp and colourful dressing style at matches. Do you have any new tricks up your sleeve for that in your new job?

"I’ll continue with the same style and maybe we’ll also see some new things along the way."