Chanvit has an enlightening experience at City

Chanvit Pholchivin in front of the City of Manchester stadium

The ousted premier's move may be construed as a political ploy or a normal business activity of a man who has been considered as a football enthusiast. But Chanvit said the buying of the Sky Blues team will benefit the country's football development. "It's a giant step forward for the future of the game here," he said.

   The most tangible evidence was the fact that what had been regarded as a distant dream of Thais playing in the England's top flight league has suddenly became a reality.

   The idea of introducing Thai footballers to the international stage quickly came up in Thaksin's mind once he completed the takeover.

   Forward Teerasil Daengda, central defender Kiatprawut Saiwaeo and right back Suree Sukha were picked by the Football Association of Thailand for a trial, which was once unthinkable for a Thai player, at the City.

   Chanvit, who accompanied the Thai trio to Manchester, described his brief spell at the Sky Blues last month as an enlightening experience. The Thai coach got an insight into what worldclass football is. He wondered at the club's football management and the professional approach with which they deal with matters. The club gives importance to every small detail. Each player has an individual schedule in weight training and the club collects the data of his performance to assess his progress. Even if the player graduates from the academy, his data is kept in the bank for years.

   Chanvit was quite impressed with the attitude of the City players. "They were very professional and responsible. Every player arrives around an hour prior to the training in order to prepare himself.

  "They show the same strong determination in practice no matter whether they are firstteam or reserve team players," he said and conceded that Thai players are quite lagging behind in that aspect.

   However in terms of ability, Chanvit believes the gap is not as wide as people thought it was. He, however, acknowledged that the Thais were not on a par with some of City's summer signings.

   Chanvit said the City staff coaches were impressed with the Thais and the club was intent to include them in the squad on a permanent basis, with Suree, seemingly, having the best chance to break into the senior team.

   "All three performed well, not just Suree. However, they considered Suree had a better chance to get into the senior team on the ground of his form and the fact that he was selected as a member of the Asian Cup best eleven in the group stage in July."

   Chanvit dismissed the suggestion that Thai players received special treatment during their stay in Manchester and the contract was offered mainly because of the fact that the club owner was a Thai.

   "Many see the trial as a privilege but I would say it's an opportunity that the former premier gave to Thai football. Although he could arrange this for us, it was Eriksson who has the final say on the issue," he said. Man City's attempt to sign Suree before the closure of the summer transfer window failed because of work permit problems.

   Chanvit, however, is confident that Suree will be in City's colours sooner than later. That will be a great leap forward for Thai football, he said.

Kitinan Sanguansak

The Nation