England will play a friendly against South Africa in Durban next summer.

Sven-Goran Eriksson's side will face the Bafana Bafana on 22 May in the build-up to the Euro 2004 qualifier against Slovakia.

England take on Slovakia at home on 11 June.

Eriksson has already stated his intent to take his squad for a training camp to keep them sharp and the Football Association organised the historic friendly following a long-standing request by former South African president Nelson Mandela.

It will be the first time England have played in South Africa, though the two sides met at Old Trafford in 1997, with England emerging 2-1 winners.

Eriksson told the FA's official website: "Football is such a popular sport in South Africa and I'm sure it will be a fantastic occasion.

"We will look forward to it very much."