Bangkok: Thailand striker Supachai Jaided is set for arguably the most important game of his career as Singapore visit Bangkok for a crunch match in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup.

A victory for the hosts would see them advance to the semifinals as group winners but a Singapore win could put Thailand out of the competition.

19-year-old Supachai played in the last 16 of the AFC Champions League for club Buriram United this year but this is up there with that match in terms of its importance and prestige. 

“It’s definitely very important,” said Supachai. “Any time you play for the national team, it’s a big game. I’m very proud to be a part of this squad and we will do our best to take the three points we need against Singapore.” 

The Lions come to Thailand buoyed by a 6-1 win over Timor Leste in midweek and will certainly provide tough opposition as the War Elephants attempt to take another big step on the way to what they hope will be a third AFF Suzuki title in a row.

But Supachai thinks that their biggest threat comes from the team unit, rather than individuals.

“I don’t think we can single out any individual player,” he said. “Every player is the best player in that position in the country. We have to look more at how they work as a team and their tactics.”

Thailand failed to hit their best form in the midweek draw with the Philippines. Even after Supachai had given the Thais a second-half lead, they failed to raise their game and ended up conceding a late equaliser. 

“We tried our best but a number of factors worked against us,” said Supachai. “We had a long journey and the pitch wasn’t in very good condition. These were the main reasons why we were not at our best.”

Supachai’s goal in the Philippines was his second of the tournament and there remains debate about what his best position might be. He often plays in a midfield role for his club and has been used by Thailand in a role behind the main striker Adisak Kraisorn. Supachai himself is in no doubt about where he has most to offer. 

“I think I am best in an attacking role," he said. "I have been playing there since I was a kid. I am happy to play wherever the team needs me and I will always give it my best but I see myself as an attacking player.”