Thailand-based Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny will be a key man when the two nations face off in the AFF Suzuki Cup, according to Thailand head coach Kiatisuk "Zico" Senamuang.
Their match in Group A will be played in Manila on Nov. 22, with both sides chasing what would be a record fifth ASEAN title.
Defending champions Thailand will start as hot favourites but Kiatisuk says it would be unwise to underestimate Singapore, despite the latter's poor results in 2016.
"Every time we face Singapore, we simply have to be at our best," the 42-year-old told TODAY.
"I look at the Singapore squad and they have plenty of experience all over the field. I believe Hassan [Sunny] will play an important role in this tournament."
Kiatisuk was an import striker in the S.League with Singapore Armed Forces (now called Warriors FC) in 2001-02. He's been impressed with the former of former Warriors' goalkeeper Hassan, who is into his second season in the Premier League of Thailand with Army United FC.
Hassan is expected to fight with Tampines Rovers' custodian Izwan Mahbud for Singapore's starting spot in goal at the Suzuki Cup.
While having the greatest respect for former rival V. Sundramoorthy's side, Kiatisuk refused to underestimate the other teams in Group A.
"This is a very tough group where all the teams have their strengths and they will put in their best performance for every match, " Kiatisuk said. "The Philippines have been on the rise and even Indonesia are a tricky team.
"Our aim is to be the champions once again. It will be tough but we will work towards that."
The War Elephants will be juggling their Suzuki Cup commitments with the ongoing 2018 AFC World Cup qualifying campaign, with upcoming matches against regional powerhouses including Japan and 2015 Asian champions, Australia.
Kiatisuk is the only player in Suzuki Cup history to win the tournament as a player [1996, 2000 and 2002] and as a coach [2014].
Group A fixtures
Nov. 19: Thailand vs. Indonesia, Philippines vs. Singapore
Nov. 22: Thailand vs. Singapore, Indonesia vs. Philippines
Nov. 25: Singapore vs. Indonesia, Philippines vs. Thailand