Supachok seeks greener pastures in Japan

Supachok seeks greener pastures in Japan

Midfielder Supachok Sarachat (centre) poses with Hokkaido chairman Hirokatsu Mikami, right, and Buriram United chief Newin Chidchob on Wednesday. (Photo: Buriram United)
Midfielder Supachok Sarachat (centre) poses with Hokkaido chairman Hirokatsu Mikami, right, and Buriram United chief Newin Chidchob on Wednesday. (Photo: Buriram United)

Thailand midfielder Supachok Sarachat is joining Japanese side Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo on a six-month loan deal, his club Buriram United said on Wednesday.

The contract could be extended for another six months with an option for a permanent move, Buriram chief Newin Chidchob said.

Newin said Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo chairman Hirokatsu Mikami was in town to discuss the matter and both sides reached the agreement.

"This is a good chance for Supachok to demonstrate his skills and prove himself in a league which has a higher standard than the Thai league," Newin said.

"This is an important step for Supachok as a professional footballer. I believe the experience he would gain from the Japanese club would also be useful to the Thai national team."

It had been reported that Sapporo wanted Supachok to replace Thailand playmaker Chanathip Songkrasin who is now at J-League champions Kawasaki Frontale.

Supachok, 23, has won four Thai League 1, one FA Cup and two League Cup titles with Buriram.

He has played 18 times for his country, scoring five goals.

Buriram, who were crowned the T1 champions of the 2021/22 season last week, are still chasing the League Cup and FA Cup titles this term. They are in the semi-finals of both tournaments.

It is unclear if Supachok will join Hokkaido immediately or after the two events.

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