Thailand superstar Chanathip Songkrasin turns up the heat on Socceroos

THAILAND has nothing to play for but pride which is why all the pressure is on the Socceroos to keep their World Cup dream alive, according to Thai superstar Chanathip Songkrasin.

Thailand star Chanathip Songkrasin. Picture: Getty Images

THAI superstar Chanathip Songkrasin declared that the pressure is on the Socceroos.

The “Thai Messi” starred in the 2-2 draw against Australia last November and admitted his stint in Japan had helped him become a more complete player.

With Tuesday night’s clash a dead rubber for the War Elephants, Chanathip said the Socceroos were under pressure to keep their World Cup dream alive.

“Yes it’s a very big game but the pressure is not on myself or the Thai team, the pressure is on the Australian team that needs to do well and perform,’’ Chanathip said.

“I’d like to have fun and enjoy the match. It’s pride to play for the national team.”

Chanathip Songkrasin starred in Thailand’s 2-2 draw against the Socceroos last year. Picture: Jono Searle

Thailand coach Milovan Rajevac led Ghana to a 1-1 draw against the Socceroos at the 2010 World Cup and while he remained cagey about their tactics, revealed that they aimed to be resolute.

“If I compare this team to 2010, I would maybe give the 2010 team a slight advantage,’’ Rajevac said.

“Whether they score or concede first, this makes a big difference on how they play.

“Tomorrow will come down to who makes the least mistakes. We will try and exploit each other’s weaknesses.

“We have worked on this (defensive structure) in three camps now, we’ll try and improve and make a transformation.’’

Originally published as Thailand superstar Chanathip Songkrasin turns up the heat on Socceroos