Club football in Thailand has recently been undergoing a renaissance as investment and professionalism have found their way into the domestic game, with the sport becoming more streamlined and focused as a result.

The 2007 merger between the Thai Premier League - which was played for by clubs primarily based in the great Bangkok area - and the provincial league into a bona fide national league has seen league football improve throughout Thailand.

The current set-up has 16 clubs, with the winners earning a place in the playoff for the AFC Champions League while the bottom three clubs are relegated.

Thai league football was not deemed professional enough by the Asian Football Confederation to warrant a direct qualifying place for the ACL, although the position is under constant review.

Muangthong United were crowned the 2009 Thai Premier League champions, as they successfully defended the title they won the previous year ahead of a challenge from Chonburi FC, the 2007 champions.