Cong Phuong trusts coach Philippe Troussier and will try to play.

Striker Nguyen Cong Phuong affirmed that he is always confident when he is on the field and will try his best if coach Troussier gives him the opportunity in the match against Syria.

Coach Philippe Troussier, Cong Phuong (in blue) at the press conference before the friendly match between Vietnam and Syria. (Photo: An An)

Cong Phuong is the player representing the Vietnamese team with coach Philippe Troussier attending the press conference before the friendly match with Syria on the afternoon of June 19.

When asked: "If you get to play, are you confident in scoring against Syria?", the striker born in 1995 said: "I am no longer a 19 or 20 year old player, but 28 years old. Therefore, I am always confident when I get to play. If I have the chance, I will try my best."

Previously, Coach Troussier did not include Cong Phuong's name in the registration list for the victory over Hong Kong (China) on June 5.

Fans are eagerly waiting for the Nghe An striker to take the field to show his ability after more than half a year playing for Yokohama Club in Japan but almost not playing.

Cong Phuong said: "My life off the field and my training and competition in Japan are very comfortable and fun. I have the opportunity to rub shoulders, practice and compete with many high-level players.

It is an opportunity for me to gain experience and learn many things. I hope I can contribute that experience to the Vietnam team."

This is the first time Cong Phuong has worked with coach Troussier. The 28-year-old striker highly appreciates the training program that the French coach is applying to the Vietnamese team.

Cong Phuong expressed his trust in Coach Troussier: "The current training intensity of the Vietnamese team is equal to that of Japan. I think Coach Troussier used to work in Japan so he understands Asian people. He will bring the best to the Vietnamese team."

For his part, Coach Troussier revealed that he will create opportunities for Cong Phuong and Van Toan to play in the match against Syria.

Coach Troussier said: "Cong Phuong doesn't play regularly, so I let him play 30 minutes in the practice match with Hai Phong Club to regain his form.

Cong Phuong may not play 90 minutes tomorrow but I will use him for a certain period of time. I believe Phuong will try his best to show himself. The same goes for Van Toan. Their extensive international experience is very useful for the team."

The 68-year-old coach left open the possibility of using Quang Hai, Cong Phuong, and Van Toan at the same time in the upcoming match.

The friendly match between Vietnam and Syria will take place at 7:30 p.m. on June 20 at Thien Truong Stadium, Nam Dinh . This is the last match between coach Troussier and his team during the FIFA Days training session in June.

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