Younghusband said Asian football has made tremendous inroads in the last 10 years and the Philippines captain expects one, if not several, to enjoy extended runs in Russia 2018.

"Asian teams are competing against the best from Europe and South America and I will not be surprised if one, if not more, do very well in the World Cup," said Younghusband, who is preparing for the Philippines' maiden appearance at the AFC Asian Cup in UAE 2019.