Changes to AFC Champions League planned

Australian clubs should benefit if proposed changes to the AFC Champions League are introduced in 2009.

Currently 28 teams from 15 countries are divided into seven groups. Only the winners proceed to the next stage where they are joined by last years AFC Champions.

If recommendations are approved two teams will qualify from each group and an extra knockout round will be introduced.

This year the final will be played over two legs on a home and away basis. This would be changed to a one-off final at a neutral venue.

Australia's current entrants Sydney FC and Adelaide United would be sitting in a much healthier position if these rules had been in place for this season.

The new rules will ensure that the wealthier clubs can extend their ACL season, allowing increased revenues from sponsorship and television deals.