After completing a two-week long training camp at Manchester City, the Thai national team returned to Bangkok confident and prepared.

Earlier in January, Manchester City owner Thaksin Shinawatra invited Thailand to train with the English Premiership outfit for two weeks - paying for the trip and expenses out of his own pocket.

And after their stint with City, Thailand coach Chanvit Phalajivin believes that his team has gained valuable experience in terms of tactics and fitness.

''My players have got used to the cold weather [in Manchester] which will be similar to what they will face in Japan,'' said Phalajivin.

''They have also learned new techniques and tactics and their fitness is much better than before.''