Self confessed international football slut, Chris “Newy” Newport, who loves to play for anyone playing against the Swans (he’s played for the Thailand Tigers and Jakarta Bintangs against us), has written to us to say, “Well done on a successful tour by the Swans. The Swans have a great bunch of guys who will succeed in future years and I personally hope that you get the guernsey for the 2008 Champs”.

Newy goes on to add, “Great to see you guys and and I will be sure to drop into your local when I am next in Vietnam”.

Newy (who, incidentally, is pictured above getting a pasting!) is a top man and is always very welcome in Vietnam both on and off the field. We also gratefully acknowledge his confidence that we could host the Asian Champs next year.

But meanwhile, the Bali Geckos have actually floated an idea that in light of Bangkok’s central location and affordable living, it would make an ideal, permanent venue for the Champs. Hong Kong has concurred.

The beauty about footy is that it’s never over.

Stop Press: Tim Hakfoort, President of the Jakarta Bintangs has just sent an email saying “Well done to the UAE and Vietnam for joining the comp”.