Thailand manager Kiatisuk Senamuang has kicked one of his football players off the national team after he was accused of attempting to rape a 17-year-old girl.
Atit “Back” Daosawang, who has played seven times for the national team as a defender, has been charged with abducting a minor with lewd intent on April 10.
His club team, Muangthong United, have also taken action against the player by halving his wages for six months. And further disciplinary action by the club has not been ruled out depending on the results of the investigation.
“This case should be a moral lesson for the national team and club footballers,” Kiatisuk said at Tuesday’s news conference.
“They have to maintain good behavior both on and off the field.”
Kiatisuk said the defender would be eligible for a place on the national team once he “reforms his behavior.”
Atit allegedly attempted to rape a 17-year-old schoolgirl at his home in Nonthaburi on April 10.
According to the complaint, Atit and the victim were out together, and he volunteered to drive her home. Instead of taking her home, he drove her to his home where he tried to drag her into his bedroom, but the girl managed to flee, reported Khaosod English.
At a news conference on Sunday, the footballer admitted the incident did happen and apologized to the victim and her family.
However, Atit insisted he had no intention to sexually assault the victim.
“Let me insist that I had no intention to violate her or break any laws,” Atit said.
Police have charged him with abducting a minor with lewd intent, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in jail.
