Representatives from the J.League, Football Association of Thailand (FAT) and participating Thai clubs met in Bangkok on Tuesday to promote the upcoming J.League Asia Challenge 2017 Thailand Interleague Cup.

Representatives from over 40 media companies attended the press conference ahead of the four-team tournament, which will feature local clubs Bangkok United and Suphanburi FC, J.League champions Kashima Antlers and Yokohama F. Marinos.

“Our two countries have a valuable relationship and we are grateful for Japan’s support,” said FAT and Thai League president Poompanmoung Somyot. “I’m happy that we can hold this competition and I hope that Thai football can improve in order to catch up to Japan.”

“My first away trip as a member of Japan’s national team was to Thailand, a country which holds a lot of memories,” said J.League vice chairman Hiromi Hara. 

“I’ve always thought highly of Thai players and, with (Thai national team midfielder) Chanathip Songkrasin joining Consadole Sapporo this summer, I believe that the footballing relationship between our two countries will continue to prosper.”

The competition will take place on January 24 and 26 at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok.