The young striker is one of the three Thai players selected for the "Chang-Everton Rising Star Year 2" programme. The project is part of the sponsorship deal between Chang Beer and the English outfit which is aimed at developing Thai football by giving Thai talents a chance to sharpen their skills at Everton's facilities.

Somchai Suthikulpanich, the Chang Beer executive, was delighted with the success of the project, especially since the Liverpool-based side is interested in extending Ronnachai's term in England.

"Everton would like to have Ronnachai back in England. However, there are many other issues to be sorted out and studied in much detail."

 "We will at first look at what kind of a contract they offer or which team he will join at Everton. We will find the right solution for Ronnachai," added Somchai.

The 18-year-old quicksilver striker, who can play with both feet, has endured an anxious wait to taste English football after receiving the news from his hosts in England around a month ago.

"Indeed, I initially planned to quietly return to training in England using my own money. Fortunately my hosts broke the good news that Ray Hall [the Everton Academy manager] wanted me back. The only thing I can do now is to wait for the decision from Chang."

In the event of a failure of talks with Everton, Ronnachai said he has an option of turning to League One (the third tier league in English football) outfit Tranmere Rovers, who have already made an approach.

 "Tranmere Rovers' youth team coach whose house is near to mine said that I could have a trial at his club. They already signed several of my English team-mates. So, I think I have a pretty good chance if I go there. I will train with the pre-Olympic team and prepare myself physically and when everything is sorted out I will fly to England at once."

Jeonbuk in Asian final

nJeonbuk Hyundai Motors stunned Korean rivals Ulsan Hyundai Horang-I 4-1 to reach the Asian Champions League final yesterday.

Jeonbuk scored twice either side of half-time to overturn a 3-2 first-leg deficit against the Korean champions, winning 6-4 on aggregate.

They will face either Al Karama of Syria or Kuwaiti outfit Al Qadisiya in the final on November 1 and 8.

"As a representative of South Korea I will lift the trophy," said captain Choi Jin-cheul, who scored the opening goal.

"Ever since the Champions League started, we have never given up fighting and that is why we got good results."