Ekanit Panya is emerging to be a crucial player for Thailand during the World Cup 2022 qualifiers beside Chanathip Songkrasin, the ace of Japanese coach Akira Nishino.
The 20-year-old Ekanit, who plays for Chiangmai, became the youngest player to score a goal in the Thai league. At the age of 16, Ekarit found the net against Muang Thong United, although his team eventually lost 1-4.
He was also part of the Thai team which won the AFF U18 Championship 2017. Ekanit is known for his speed, refined skills, and excellent finishing ability.
“I have heard a lot about this young talent. He is a good player and I’m impressed,” the Siam Sports quoted coach Nishino as saying.
When asked about preparations for World Cup 2022 qualifiers, Nishino said: “We are working on it. I’m watching the players closely.”
“We have completed our initial plan and are moving on to the next phase. We have conducted research on the Vietnamese team. Thailand’s 23-man roster will be announced on August 27 in line with FIFA regulations. We don’t have much time for training and selecting new players,” Nishino added.
Thailand will take on Vietnam at the opening match of its World Cup 2022 qualifying campaign on Sept. 5 in Bangkok.
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