The incident unfolded when local police raided the B.M Hotel, where the players were reportedly caught using narcotics. The players involved are midfielder Dinh Thanh Trung, the 2017 Vietnamese Golden Ball winner; midfielder Nguyen Trung Hoc; goalkeeper Duong Quang Tuan; central defender Nguyen Ngoc Thang; and full-back Nguyen Van Truong.
A representative from the Ha Tinh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism disclosed to the media on May 8th that the players were apprehended “while partying” at the hotel. The source lamented the involvement of Dinh Thanh Trung, whom he noted had previously been regarded as a model professional.
“The most regrettable case is Dinh Thanh Trung, who had always been an exemplary figure. Our stance, along with the team’s management, is to enforce strict discipline should any player break the law,” said the official.
The absence of these key players was noted during Hong Linh Ha Tinh FC’s training session before their match against Binh Dinh FC at Quy Nhon Stadium, leading to speculation about their whereabouts. The sudden unavailability of such pivotal team members undoubtedly complicates head coach Nguyen Thanh Cong’s strategy against Binh Dinh FC, scheduled for later that day at 6:00 PM.
Hong Linh Ha Tinh FC has been on a solid run this season, recently enhancing their squad with notable signings including midfielder Xuan Truong, Trong Hoang, overseas Vietnamese player Viktor Le, and foreign striker Ibara Prince. Prior to their loss against Quang Nam, the team enjoyed a four-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their resilience with victories over Khanh Hoa and Binh Duong and draws against Hai Phong and Hanoi Police FC.
This distressing development casts a shadow over the team’s recent progress and poses serious questions about the future conduct and focus of its players. The club and the VFF are expected to take decisive actions to address these allegations and ensure such incidents do not tarnish the sport’s integrity or the club’s reputation.
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