Thailand striker Teerasil Dangda hopes he has a bright future in Spain with Almeria after getting off to a good start by scoring three goals in two friendlies.
Teerasil Dangda, fourth left, arrives at Suvarnabhumi airport with Almeria.
Teerasil, who is on loan for one season from Thai Premier League side SCG Muang Thong United, returned to Thailand yesterday with the La Liga club, which will play two friendlies here as part of their preparations for the new season.
Almeria, who enjoyed a brilliant run in the home stretch last season to avoid the drop, will take on Muang Thong at SCG Stadium tomorrow and face League One side Phuket FC on Aug 6 in Phuket.
The 26-year-old forward arrived in Spain earlier this month and made his presence felt by scoring three goals in Almeria’s warm-up matches.
“I am happy with my form after scoring three goals for Almeria,’’ said Teerasil.
“But it is just the beginning and there is still room for me to improve. I have to work hard and try to get used to life and football there.
“Football there is completely different from here. They are stronger and faster. We have to train very hard in the morning and afternoon.’’
He added: “It is strange for me to come to Thailand to play against my club Muang Thong. SCG Stadium is a daunting place for the visiting team and I will experience it when I play against Muang Thong at my home.’’
Teerasil trained with Spanish champions Atletico Madrid last year. He was on English club Manchester City’s books a few years ago but did not get a chance to play for the Premier League champions.
Almeria coach Francisco Rodriguez said: “We are very happy to have Teerasil in our team. He made a good start by scoring three goals in two games.
“But Teerasil and the team still have many things to improve.’’
Asked if Teerasil would start against Espanol in their season opener in the La Liga next month, Rodriguez said: “We have seen his ability but it is still early to say if he will be a starter.
“All I can say now is everybody has to work hard.’’
Muang Thong president Phongsak Pholanan said the club was proud to see Teerasil join a Spanish club.
“We hope Teerasil can help promote Thai football in Europe,’’ he said.
Unfortunately for Muang Thong, the Kirins have suffered a slump in form since Teerasil’s departure.
Muang Thong were TPL leaders before Teerasil left for Spain but have had a winless run without him.
Muang Thong lost 2-1 at Bangkok Glass on Sunday and are now fourth, three points behind leaders and bitter rivals Buriram United.
Tickets for tomorrow’s match start from 200 baht and are available at Thai Ticket Major, call 02-262-3456 or visit thaiticketmajor.com.