Vietnam, who are co-hosting the continental showpiece with Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand, have been drawn in Group C alongside defending champions Japan, Qatar and Gulf Cup champions the UAE.

Goalkeeper Duc Cuo, defenders Van Bien, Viet Cuong, Vu Phong, Cong Minh, Minh Chuyen, Mai Tien Thanh, Dong Huy Thai and strikers Anh Duc, Cong Vinh, Phuc Hiep and Thanh Binh were all part of the under-23 squad who have booked their place in the final round of the qualification process for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

"Young players have proved their ability recently. There is no reason not to call them for the national squad. We should create opportunities for young players to participate in elite events and it is good for Vietnam football," said Riedl.

"This is the first time Vietnam is hosting the final round of the AFC Asian Cup. That's an honour, but it is also a burden on the Vietnamese players.

"We will try our best to prepare for this event. The three rivals of Vietnam are very strong. Japan, Qatar and UAE are better than Vietnam in all aspects so Vietnam doesn't have many opportunities to enter the next round. However, a good style of playing which shows improvement can satisfy fans."

Vietnam will step up their preparations for their opening game of the Asian Cup against the UAE on July 8 in Bangkok next week before facing Jamaica on June 24 and Bahrain six days later.

Vietnam squad for Asian Cup: Duc Cuong, Quang Huy, Hong Son; Nguyen Van Bien, Viet Cuong), Phung Van Nhien, Quang Thanh, Nhu Thanh, Huy Hoang, Hung Dung; Vu Phong, Cong Minh, Minh Chuyen, Mai Tien Thanh, Dong Huy Thai, Tan Tai, Tai Em, Minh Phuong, Duc Duong; Anh Duc, Cong Vinh, Phuc Hiep, Thanh Binh.

Reserves: The Anh; Long Giang, Chau Phong Hoa; Hong Minh, Mai Xuan Hop; Hoang Ngoc Linh, Viet Thang.