Cheng Hoe relishes tough test of trying to arrest fall of Police Tero

PETALING JAYA: Tan Cheng Hoe’s decision to join Police Tero, a Thai club battling relegation in the top division, may have baffled many but the former Selangor coach says the move is the fulfilment of a long-held dream.

Since becoming Kedah’s head coach in 2014, Cheng Hoe always had a vision of plying his trade abroad as a tactician and acquiring the experience needed for him to be a top-class manager.

And joining Police Tero, despite the club’s current struggles, is just the kind of challenge that will test his abilities and character as a coach.

“For many years, I’ve been open to offers from abroad. When Police Tero offered me, I just grabbed it. If I did not take it, when will such an opportunity come again?’’ said the 55-year-old Cheng Hoe, who signed a short-term deal where he will take charge of the team for 11 matches.

“I did not have to think twice despite the club’s position in the league (13th), where they are fighting relegation.

“If I succeed in helping them stay in the top division, I may extend my stay. If not, I’ll seek other opportunities elsewhere.’’

For a start, Cheng Hoe is quickly making his presence felt up north.

He has already made history as the first Malaysian to coach a Thai club when he took to the dugout in Police’s 1-1 draw with Nakhon Pathom at the Boonyachinda Stadium in Bangkok on Saturday.

The draw ended the club’s five-game losing streak in the league and some fans have even praised Cheng Hoe for his coaching style, as the team had 60 per cent of possession and 19 shots on goal - stats that are already much better than their earlier games.

Cheng Hoe said he had a high regard for Thai players as they are fighters who never give up.

“They are mentally strong and physically fit,’’ he added.

With two assistant coaches helping him to translate his instructions to the Thai players, Cheng Hoe need not worry about communication.

‘’There’s not much of a language barrier, and the foreign players in the team can speak English.’’ Cheng Hoe said he hopes his stint in Thailand will open the door for more Malaysian coaches to to try their luck there.

‘’I’m proud to be the first Malaysian to coach a Thai club, but I don’t want to be the only one.”