Rajevac concerned about lack of quality Thai strikers
Milovan Rajevac admitted that a shortage of quality Thai strikers was a major concern after his team lost to China in a friendly on Saturday.
Despite having more possession and scoring chances, wasteful Thailand were punished by a double from Wu Lei on the soggy Rajamangala National Stadium pitch.
“China played well and they know how to get the result they want. But it’s just a shame we weren’t able to convert our chances into goals,” said Rajevac.
“I’m generally happy with how all my players performed on the night. But we must improve our finishing.
“The first goal was a result of our mistake. For the second goal, it was one Chinese attacker against three of our players but still we conceded.
“We were a bit unlucky not to win this game after creating so many chances. Fortunately this was a friendly. I hope we will do better in a proper match. We must create more chances and score as well.”
The Serbian coach believed one of Thailand’s problems at the moment is the lack of talent up front.
“All the top strikers in the Thai League 1 are foreigners. It’s hard for Thai players to develop when they don’t get game time,” said Rajevac.
“We really don’t have any Thai strikers in the league that stand out at the moment and that’s one of our problems.
“But that’s not an excuse for us to not score. It’s my job to fix this problem.”
Defeat aside, Rajevac singled out the 22-year-old Sasalak Haiprakhon for praise. The young Buriram United midfielder, who made his Thailand debut on Saturday, was a late substitution and his speed troubled the China defence. He also came close to scoring twice.
“Personally I was very impressed with Sasalak Haiprakhon. He gave the Chinese a hard time when he came on. I think everybody is impressed with him as well,” said Rajevac. “Sarach Yooyen was another one who did great.”
Saturday’s game was part of both teams’ preparations for next year’s Asian Cup.
Thailand will also try to defend the Suzuki Cup title later this year before going to the United Arab Emirates to take part in the continental championship.
SIROD MOVES TO PRACHUAP
Sirod Chatthong has completed his move from SCG Muang Thong United to fellow Thai League 1 side PT Prachuap yesterday.
Sirod was heavily linked with another Thai League 1 club Ratchaburi but the burly striker was reportedly unable to reach agreement with the club over his personal terms.
The transfer fee was not officially disclosed by both clubs while source said the price tag was around 12-13 million baht.