Europe-based Japanese players will get a call-up to play Jamaica in an international friendly next month, Zico's debut match as Japan coach, the Brazilian coach said Wednesday in Tokyo.
With Zico at the helm, Japan will play its first post-World Cup game against Jamaica at the National Stadium on Oct. 16 (7 p.m. kickoff) and then host Argentina at Saitama Stadium 2002 on Nov. 20 (7:20 p.m. kickoff).
"I have plans for the squad selection in my mind, which has been set 90 percent," Zico said at a news conference. "I know we have to negotiate with the (Europe-based) players' clubs to release them for these games. But I'm going to invite all of them."
The 22-strong Japan squad is expected to be announced Oct. 7 to get together for a two-day session ahead of the Jamaica game.
For information, call the Tokyo Metropolitan Football Association at (03) 5237-9090.