THEERATHON BUNMATHAN

Able to operate anywhere on the left flank, the 26-year-old is pacy, flamboyant and packs a fierce shot with his left foot. He left Thai Premier League club Buriram to join rivals Muangthong United in May for a then-record 35 million baht (S$1.4 million).

SARACH YOOYEN

Still only 22, the central midfielder has been putting in mature performances that belie his age. He may stand at just 1.68m with a slender build but Sarach rarely loses possession and captained the Under-23s to gold at last year's SEA Games in Singapore.

CHARYL CHAPPUIS

The heart-throb of the side, the attacking midfielder helped Switzerland win the 2009 Under-17 World Cup before deciding to represent his mother's homeland. He missed 16 months of football due to a serious knee injury and only returned in April. His surging runs, cheeky flicks and long-range shooting are key weapons in Thailand's armoury.

CHANATHIP SONGKRASIN

Short, speedy, skilful and a great left foot. No surprises that the popular Chanathip, or Jay (his childhood nickname), is known in Thailand, as Messi Jay. The 23-year-old likes going on mazy dribbles, taking on defenders and scoring critical goals, including the winner in the 2014 Suzuki Cup final.

TEERASIL DANGDA

The tip of the War Elephants' spearhead and team captain, the 28-year-old is comfortable on the ball, strong in the air and a deadly finisher. His 37 goals in 81 internationals arguably make him the region's most feared striker.