Talented young Thailand striker Suphanat Mueanta is looking forward to leaving his mark on the Asian Cup when the War Elephants kick off their campaign in Qatar next week.
Thailand have been drawn to play Saudi Arabia, Kyrgyzstan and Oman in Group F for the event, which kicks off on Thursday. The War Elephants will start off with a match against Kyrgyzstan on Tuesday. They will next play Oman on Jan 21 and take on former champions Saudi Arabia four days later.
Suphanat, who plays for OH Leuven in the top Belgian league, on Tuesday told the media after a training session that he was fully fit at the moment.
"I am 100 percent ready for the Asian Cup," the 21-year-old forward said.
"Playing in Europe has given me a lot of confidence and I have learned a lot. I am ready to use all that experience and help the national team perform well in the Asian Cup.
"We will be without Pi Mui [injured striker Teerasil Dangda] and many people are expecting a lot from me. This has put me under considerable pressure but I am trying not to think about it.
"We will also miss Pi Book [J-League based Ekanit Panya] who is a very good and talented player."
Suphanat added that he has worked with new national team coach Masatada Ishii when they were together at reigning Thai League 1 champions Buriram United.
"I used to work with coach Ishii when I played for Buriram United, so I know his style.
"I am ready to play in any position he assigns me. I have no problem playing as a striker or on the right wing."
Meanwhile, veteran goalkeeper Siwarak Tedsungnoen, 39, said he is happy to have been selected for the national team again.
"At this moment, I am not sure when I will call it quits. At this point, I am fully focused on training for the Asian Cup."
The War Elephants are scheduled to play a warm-up match with the national U23 squad behind closed doors this afternoon.