PANAJI: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has confirmed that the national team has been invited to take part in the King's Cup 2019 later this year in Thailand.

"We are planning to have a few matches for the new coach before the World Cup qualifiers (in September). The King's Cup is a very good tournament and will provide the new coach with a fair assessment of the team," said AIFF's national team director, Abhishek Yadav .

Apart from India and the hosts, China and Vietnam have been handed invites for the tournament. According to sources, Vietnam could opt out due to prior commitments. The organisers are now hoping to attract one team from Europe and believe they can offer them enough, particularly due to the off-season in June. Slovakia made their presence felt last year, while United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Gabon also took part.

The King's Cup is likely to be played between June and July when continental championships like the Copa America (Brazil), CONCACAF Gold Cup (USA/Costa Rica) and Africa Cup of Nations (Egypt) will be played.

