The little giant Chanathip tries hard in Japan for a big goal. (2ページ目)

"I think it's a little too strict when it comes to rules," he says. "For example, the maximum speed on the highway is 80 or 100 kilometres-per-hour in Japan, which is kind of slow for us because we can drive at 150 in Thailand.

"Also, in general I feel Japanese people are not very keen to communicate with others, perhaps it's due to the high level of privacy. There are many people living alone, which is different to Thailand. In my country, people tend to live with their families and like sharing fun times."

Even so, Chanathip doesn't feel homesick. When in Thailand for international matches and so on, he "can relax but that's it". Conversely, he feels itchy because of the difference in humidity when coming back to Japan from his home country. However, the light tone of his voice proves this is not an especialy serious matter, just a natural feeling.

On the pitch as well, he tries to "play naturally" and has gained "confidence" by recording good statistics in the J-League. So, what is the 26 year-old aiming for next?

"I want to win titles in Japan," Chanathip says. "Personally, I want to score more goals and play in the AFC Champions League. It would be fantastic if we were able to play there as representatives of the J-League."