English Premier League football team Chelsea arrived in Bangkok on Friday, landing at Suvarnabhumi airport, and will play an exhibition match against Thailand's Singha All-Star XI on Wednesday night at Rajamangala National Stadium.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho and players try their hands at a 'wai', Thai-style. (AFP photo)
Several Chelsea players, led by returning manager Jose Mourinho, commonly known as "The Special One", then went to sign the get-well book for Their Majesties the King and the Queen at Siriraj hospital.
Chelsea's star players who are expected to feature in the pre-season friendly match include John Terry, Frank Lampard, Petr Čech, Eden Hazard and Ashley Cole.
However, Spanish striker Fernando Torres and midfielder Juan Mata will miss the game in Bangkok, as they are now taking a vacation after they previously competed in the FIFA Confederations Cup 2013.
Chelsea will hold a football clinic at Superkick Ladprao 80 on Monday and will practice at Rajamangala National Stadium on Tuesday.
Wednesday's exhibition match is free of charge and will be broadcast live on Channel 9 at 8pm.
English Premier League champions Manchester United arrived in Bangkok at 8.30am Thursday. They will play a pre-season friendly against Singha All-Star XI on Saturday at 8pm at Rajamangala National Stadium.
Spanish giant Barcelona FC will visit Thailand next month and will play against the Thai national team on Aug 7.