I'm not the Thai Messi,I'm Chanathip!!　The superstar from Thailand says with a grin. (3ページ目)

"I've improved in all aspects," Chanathip says. "Especially under the guidance of 'Mischa' (Mihailo Petrovic, the manager of Sapporo), my positioning has become much more efficient and I have learned about defending and discipline. Also, my shot has gained more power and precision. In short, Mischa's style ensures all the players attack and combine smoothly. I like this ultra attacking football. The players enjoy this and it entertains the fans."

How does he feel about the league as a whole then?

"Each club has quality and it's a close competition," he says with smile. "Lower ranked teams often win against clubs higher up the standings. I think the best quality in the J-League is players's discipline in general. All the players work very hard for their teams. And the league operations are truly professional, with every stadium and pitch immaculately prepared. Other Asian leagues such as the Thai Premier League should look to emulate this."

During the interview, Chanathip was relaxed with an innocent smile on his face, but the 26 year-old national team player showed confidence as well. Asked who were the toughest defenders he'd faced in the J-League, he answered with a grin, "Nobody".

That could be percieved as an arrogant attitude, but in this case everyone in the interview room burst out laughing due to the light tone of Chanathip's voice and his charming smile. Once the laughter subsided, he continued.