DAY 2: DOUBLE TRAINING, A PALACE AND CAKEPaul Eaton in Bangkok 21 July 2009
A second action-packed day has come to an end in Thailand in which the Reds have endured a double training session - but there was a birthday surprise in store for one lucky player.
Liverpool's fanatical fan-base were out in force from early morning, greeting the team onto their coach as the players made their way to an early training session. This Japanese fan had flown in especially to meet her heroes - and came complete with drawings of Fernando Torres and his wife, which she was able to present personally to El Nino.
It may have only been 9am when the players first sampled the national stadium earlier today, but the searing temperature and 85 per cent humidity ensured the fitness levels would be put under the most serious examination.
A session of gym work on the track around the pitch was followed by an intensive spell of ball work as Rafael Benitez's side look to sharpen up ahead of Wednesday's clash against Thailand.
In fact, so humid were the weather conditions, the LFC TV camera had trouble acclimatising to its new surroundings, with the lens covered in condensation every time we went to record. Thankfully, it soon adapted to the ridiculously hot weather and filming could be continued.
Full marks for Dr Waller who, recognising the club media team were close to passing out in the heat, rushed to our aid with much-needed bottles of water. Thanks Doc.
Glen Johnson was the only player who sat out training on the pitch this morning, although he did take part in the gym session and then trained fully in the evening. He's expected to be available for the clash with Thailand after making a full recovery from an achilles problem.
A keen observer at the training session was Thailand manager Peter Reid - and the former Everton and England midfielder told us old rivalries will die hard come match night. "I think I'll have to wear a blue suit and blue tie, just for a bit of needle," he joked. "I'm looking forward to the game though. It'll be a big test for our lads. We beat Pakistan recently but Liverpool will be a much bigger test. I really feel Liverpool have a chance this season, if they keep their squad together and keep Torres and Gerrard fit."
Later in the day the players were split into groups to attend commercial events across the city. Many of the players enjoyed a visit to the Grand Palace (below), others went to official events organised by adidas and Carlsberg while Rafa was sharing his ideas with local coaches as part of the club's knowledge transfer programme.
There was a surprise in store for Dirk Kuyt at the adidas event he attended when a group of youngsters presented him with a birthday cake ahead of his 29th birthday tomorrow. As his adoring crowd burst into an impromptu rendition of 'You'll Never Walk Alone', Dirk blew out the candles and was genuinely moved by the gesture. "It's always nice to be respected," he said. "It was a nice surprise to get the cake - so thank you to our fans who organised it." Happy birthday Dirk!
Dirk also endeared himself to the locals at the evening training session when, upon leaving the field, he bowed in customary Thai fashion to spark scenes of delight in the packed stands.
It was a far more intense session this evening with the players taking part in a full-sized game in which Andriy Voronin netted a sublime goal.
The Spanish contingent of Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso, Pepe Reina, Alvaro Arbeloa and Albert Riera didn't take part in the game, but instead were given running exercises around the pitch.
After the session the players took time to meet and greet fans on the side of the pitch, posing for pictures and signing autographs. Liverpool are continuing to take Thailand by storm.
Wednesday's agenda is dominated by the big match between Thailand and Liverpool, kick-off 8pm. The players are training at the stadium in the morning before enjoying a rest and a pre-match meal in the afternoon.
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I didn't realise that Peter Reid was the Coach of Thailand, extra incentive to beat them then
Don't think we'll see any of the Spanish lads till later in the second half somehow, and is seems that the temperature may play a part in the game, the humidity may take it's toll.
A win of any kind would be most welcome tomorrow and I hope Dirk scores on his birthday.
