The Thai team, who concluded their two-week training camp in Germany, had a perfect record, although against inferior opposition who were either amateurs or part-timers.

Chanvit, whose side is due to arrive in Thailand today, said he was overall pleased with the German trip as there were positive signs about the progress of his players, particularly in fitness and tactical levels. The only remaining problem was coping with long balls, he said.

The coach said he was not concerned about the fact that Thailand did not face strong opponents in the warm-up fixtures.

"We were unable to test our defence as I had expected in our three tune-up matches because our opponents were all weak. But we still have a game with Qatar this Saturday, which will provide us another opportunity to probe the team. It's pity that this time we could not field two different sides as we did in Germany," said Chanvit, who hit a lottery, 10 euros, just before leaving Germany.

The Thai coach has another reason to look forward to the Qatar game - four foreign-based players, including key midfielder Datsakorn Thonglao, who missed the German trip due to their club commitments, will be available to play.

Chanvit admitted he had still not finalised the first 11. He expected the July 3 trial match between two sets of players would give him a picture of the line-up. He said he will submit the final 23-member team to the Asian Football Confederation [AFC] on July 6.

Regarding veteran striker Kiartisak "Zico" Senamuang's chances of making it to the final list, Chanvit said, "Zico's physical condition is now much better. His fitness is no longer an issue. However, I don't expect to see the same Zico as he gets older and hasn't played in a competitive match for a while. He is a utility player for us. I will consider what role will suit him the best in each game."

Meanwhile, the AFC has chosen pop star Amita Tata Young's song "I believe", which was a big hit in the continent, as the tournament song. The Thai superstar will feature in the opening ceremony, singing the song prior to the curtain-raiser match between Thailand and Iraq on July 7.