Having been appointed the new president of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT), Worawi Makudi has set out an ambitious goal of taking Thailand to the World Cup within 12 years.

Worawi, previously FAT's secretary-general, took over the helm as the 11th FAT president after Vijit Getkaew resigned earlier this month. Worawi was elected unanimously at the association's general meeting on Sunday. The election took just 45 seconds after no other names were put forward for the post.

"For me, it's a challenge and definitely not an easy job to be the FAT president. It will need co-operation and teamwork to make our football more successful," Worawi was quoted by Monday's The Nation newspaper.

"Regarding the list of the executive board, the members, no doubt, will be knowledgeable and competent. And most importantly, they have to devote themselves to the work in order to jointly upgrade our football to international standard as the fans expect. I need a couple of days before officially naming the board," said Worawi.

Worawi predicted Thailand's long-awaiting appearance in the World Cup might come in the next 12 years.

"Participation in the World Cup is the dream of every fan," he said.

"The FAT has done its utmost in the past to make it a reality. We have hope every time we contest that we can make it ... After the next two World Cups, I think our prospects will look promising as there are several young players who are showing great talent," said Worawi, who said the results he achieves will decide how long he can stay in the office.

Source: Xinhua