BANGKOK (9 Dec 2014) – If Thai coach Kiatisuk “Zico” Senamuang could put on the national jersey, he probably would as it could solve his massive headache of trying to look for suitable replacements for the injured Kirati Keawsombut and suspended Adison Kraisorn for tomorrow’s do-or-die second-leg AFF Suzuki Cup semifinal showdown at the magnificent Rajamangala Stadium.
Thailand were held to a 0-0 draw in the first-leg in Manila three days ago and now must win to keep alive their dreams of ending their 12-year wait for the title. Thailand last won the prestigious trophy in 2002.
At this point though, it appears that the herculean task of leading the Thai attack will fall on the shoulders Chanathip Songkrasin, who at 1.58m and 56kg, is physically one of the smallest players in the Thai team.
Despite his physique, the player is nippy and strong and has proven to be one of the stars of tournament.
The BEC Terro star, who is popularly known as Messi for his exceptional dribbling skills and ability, played an instrumental role in the victories over Singapore and Malaysia in the group stage. The only minor problem is that he usually plays from the centre and supports the likes of regular strikers Kirati or Adisorn.
Zico has been using the 21-year-old, who was also in the Asian Games team that finished fourth in Incheon, in training here as the lead striker, an indication that he may start in front. But Kiatisuak also has several other options like Charyl Chappuis, who has scored two goals so far, Mongkol Thosakrai and Sarawut Masuk.
With the game scheduled to kick-off tomorrow night in front of up to 50,000 fans, Zico quickly running out of time to make a decision and will likely have a sleepless night thinking about the best man for the job.
