Thitiphan vows to polish his skills at Oita Trinita

Thitiphan vows to polish his skills at Oita Trinita

Thitiphan Puangjan, left, presents a gift basket to Thai football chief Pol Gen Somyot Poompunmuang.
Thitiphan Puangjan, left, presents a gift basket to Thai football chief Pol Gen Somyot Poompunmuang.

Thailand midfielder Thitiphan Puangjan yesterday called on Football Association of Thailand (FAT) president Pol Gen Somyot Poompunmuang before leaving for a one-year stint with J1 League side Oita Trinita tomorrow.

The 25-year-old Thitiphan is the latest Thai player to feature in Japan's top flight where he will be joining compatriots Theerathon Bunmathan and Chanathip Songkrasin, who have contracts with other clubs.

Thitiphan had an impressive run in the ongoing Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates where Thailand bowed out in the last 16 round after losing to China 2-1.

He scored the only goal in Thailand's second Group A game that gave the War Elephants a victory over Bahrain and resurrected their bid for a place in the knockout phase.

Somyot yesterday advised Thitiphan to learn as much as he can during his time in Japan.

"It is a rare opportunity, so you must make the most of it and take your game to a higher level," the FAT chief told Thitiphan.

Thitiphan, who has been loaned to recently promoted Oita Trinita for a year by BG Prathum United (formerly Bangkok Glass), said he was excited about the new experience.

"I will do my best to get accepted by my teammates and staff coaches. I hope to gain lots of experience to help the national team in the future," he said.

"I have received some valuable tips from Teerasil [Dangda], Theerathon and Chanathip about life in Japan."

Thailand striker Teerasil did not extend his contract with Sanfrecce Hiroshima at the end of 2018 season, and has returned to SCG Muang Thong United.

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