Kiatisak and national teams seek inspiration at Sanam Luang

Kiatisak’s side joined forces with the national female under-16, under-19 and senior squads to hand out food and water for mourners at Sanam Luang.   

Earlier in the day, former national striker Kiatisak gave a rallying call to his players as they reported for national duty ahead of the Australia fixture on November 15 and the Asean Championship running from November 19 to December 17.

“I want everyone to focus on the task at hand. People still believe in our team after what we’ve done so far. Some are desperate for us to get off the mark [in the World Cup qualifying campaign]. I completely understand that, as everyone wants to see us win. I want us to stick together.

“We called you in for the training camp sooner than usual because the [domestic] season has already ended, but our duties are not over yet. We play football for the country, the King and the Thai people. Everyone is grateful to the late King. He always worked hard for the people.

“I heard many players say that they are desperate for a call-up this time. We still have work to do since we have six games remaining. I see [determination] in everyone’s eyes, but you must show me [your worth in training]. We will select 23 players for the World Cup qualifier and the Suzuki Cup [Asean Championship].

“For new guys, I think it’s an honour to be in the team. To have the national flag on your chest is something to be proud of. It’s an achievement for any football player.”

With Kiatisak set to trim his provisional 28-man list to a final squad of 23, the coach called on the players to fight for a place while maintaining camaraderie.

“You are the best players in the country, so when you get this opportunity, you need to show in training [that you want to be in the team]. I’m aware that you love each other very much [after] working with all of you over the last three or four years.

“I would like to see you all keep the camaraderie. … For me, all of you are like my younger brothers and I hope to give you all the chance to prove yourselves,” said Kiatisak, whose side begin their 19-day training camp at Kirin Valley on Saturday.   

Thailand face Asian champions Australia in their fifth Group B match in the Asian last-12 World Cup qualifiers at Rajamangala National Stadium in three weeks’ time before they begin their title defence four days later at the Asean Championship, where the group stage will take place in Myanmar and the Philippines.

The Thais are in the same group as the Philippines, Indonesia and Singapore in the biennial tournament.