The Wellington Phoenix will face English Premier League side Aston Villa in group play in Hong Kong Football's Sevens Tournament in May.
The Phoenix striker Nathan Burns celebrates a goal. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Playing for the first time in the competition, the Phoenix will face five times winners Aston Villa in a tough introduction.
Also in the group will be Hong Kong Football Club and a team from the Hong Kong Premier League to be confirmed.
The Phoenix General Manager David Dome said the Club was looking forward to taking on more English Premier League opposition.
"We're super excited about taking a young team as part of the Hong Kong tour and playing Aston Villa in May next year."
"This will be the third EPL side we have faced in under 12 months following on from the Football United Tour which is tremendous exposure for us as a Club."
"We'll be taking a mix of young players from our Academy, the Premiers and the first team squad."
"We're very proud to represent Wellington, New Zealand and the A-League in Asia for this exciting tournament."
Other notable Clubs participating this year include current Spanish champions Atletico Madrid, Football United Tour participants Newcastle and West Ham United, and English Premier League side Stoke City.
The Hong Kong Football Sevens tournament runs from May 29 to 31 at the Hong Kong Football Club.
