Speaking at a news conference ahead of match against Thailand in the 2011 Asian Cup qualifier, Afshin Ghotbi said, “We have contacted Turkey, Egypt and Chile football associations to play against their teams in warm-up matches. Also, we are going to hold a two-week training camp in Europe after the 2010 World Cup.”
Iran also intends to invite Japan and South Korea to come to Tehran to play friendlies, he added.
Ghotbi praised Ali Karimi for returning to the national team and said, “I am so happy because of Karimi’s comeback. He loves the Iranian people and has lots of experience,”
Iran is scheduled to play Thailand on Wednesday. Ghotbi said, “Iran will play Thailand with a combination of young and experienced players. We are going to build a strong team for the Asian Cup.”