Teerasil set to miss crucial W Cup qualifier

http://nationmultimedia.com/sports/Teerasil-set-to-miss-crucial-W-Cup-qualifier-30169102.html

In the wake of flooding in Bangkok, the Football Association of Thailand has moved Thailand's World Cup qualifier against leaders Australia on November 15 to Supachalasai stadium.

The Group D fixture was originally destined for Rajamangala National stadium in Bang Kapi district, which is still being menaced by flooding.

Thailand, currently in second spot with four points from three games, face two crucial matches this month which could define their qualifying campaign, with a trip to thirdplaced Saudi Arabia on November 11 coming ahead of the Australia fixture. The Thais complete the group phase with an away tie against Oman in February.

Having cut short his training spell at Thaiowned Leicester City, Buriram PEA forward Kirati Keawsombut joined the squad for the first time yesterday at the Rajamangala stadium.

However, leading striker Teerasil Dangda was unable to train due to his ongoing groin injury, and it now seems certain that the 23yearold will miss the Saudi match. There remains a chance, though, that he will recover in time for the Australia fixture.

National coach Winfried Schaefer revealed that he would announce the 23man list for the Saudi match after today's training session.

"Right now we are putting the emphasis on improving players' fitness. Then we will work on our tactics for the game against the Saudis when we have a training camp in Qatar.

"I'll make the cut [of squad payers] after training tomorrow before submitting the list to the AFC [Asian Football Confederation] the following day," said Schaefer.