Famous for his fiery outbursts and no-nonsense style, former England midfielder Peter Reid has promised a more laid-back approach in his new job as coach of Thailand.

The former Manchester City, Leeds United and Sunderland manager said he hoped to instil a winning mentality in Thailand's under-achieving players and shouting would do him no favours.

"You have to be constructive, you need players with you, disciplined, with a good team atmosphere," Reid told Reuters yesterday in his first interview since accepting one of Asian soccer's toughest jobs.

"You can't get people's backs up, different cultures react in different ways. I want to get the best out of these players and you can't do that shouting at anyone."

Reid, 52, is due to sign a lucrative four-year contract on Friday and his task is to steer the Thais to their first World Cup finals in 2014.

Thailand have traditionally dominated south east Asian soccer but their mostly part-time players have struggled at a higher level against World Cup regulars South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

Reid said he was impressed with the skill and speed of his diminutive players and would focus on improving their fitness and confidence in front of goal.

"It's a difficult job but I'm really excited about it," he said. "I want them to play positively, it doesn't matter if they're short.

"Owen and Fowler proved that. You can still get goals even if you're not a giant. It's a mental thing, don't be afraid to miss."