By Kennedy Gondwe BBC Sport Online

Zambia striker Rotson Kilambe is to have trials with English third division club Oxford United.

Kilambe has been released by the Zambia national side, currently preparing for their Cosafa Cup semi-final against Malawi, to attend the five-day trial.

Kilambe, who was recently named the new captain of the Chipolopolo, is Zambia's top scorer this season with 14 goals.

"I think this a very good opportunity for a player like Kilambe who is enjoying top form," said Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) spokesperson Pivotty Simwanza.

Rare chance

"We know how important our forth coming game against Malawi is but the player has to make use of the invitation," he added.

Simwanza said he was certain that Kilambe would soon establish himself in England.

"We are very happy with the development as an association and we wish him all the best," he said.

"We are very confident he will make it."

Kilambe was banned by Fifa last July for failing a doping test, but has been showing impressive form since returning to football.

Simwanza said the player is expected back in the country on 7 August, a day before Zambia leave for Blantyre for the semi-final against on 10 August.

"The nation should not worry that Kilambe will miss the match. We understand how important he is," said Simwaza.

Joe Mwala, Kilambe's local manager, said he is expected to feature in a friendly between Oxford United and Southampton on Saturday.