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Published on February 1, 2008

Thailand will kick-off their Group B campaign with a daunting trip to Saitama where they will take on Japan on February 6. The other teams in the pool are Oman and Bahrain.

Chanvit was planning to field a strong team against the Koreans, but faces a big headache in picking his line-up, particularly at the back, following injuries to three of his central defenders.

Manchester City-bound Kiatprawut Saiwaeo was laid low with toothache, Prat Samakraj has a swollen ankle and veteran Jetsada Jitsawad sustained a knee injury after a collision during training.

"The only fit centre-back is Patiphan [Petchphun]. We would give the other three until the last minute to prove their fitness. Natthaporn [Panlit] may need to be drafted in from left-back to play along with Patiphan at the centre, with Natthapong [Samana] taking over his place. The other option is to play Apichet [Puttan] in the centre. I'm confident we can fix the problem," Chanvit said.

In midfield, Chanvit has decided to hand a start to Datsakorn Thonglao, Nirut Surasiang and Sutee Sukso-mkit. Star striker Teeratep "Leesaw" Winothai and Sarayoot Chaikamdee will lead the attack for the home side.

The game will take place at the Rajamangala National Stadium. Tickets priced at Bt100 are available at the venue. Siam Sport Channel will telecast it live from 6pm.

The Nation