Charlton will tour parts of Cambodia's mine-infested northwest, said Khek Ravy, vice president of the Football Federation of Cambodia (FFC).

A consummate sportsman whose formidable speed and deadly long-range shot rated him as one of England's best-ever footballers, his visit is also intended to breathe some life into Cambodia's ailing football side.

Battered by its opponents abroad and beset by scandal at home, Cambodia's national team is ranked 169 out of 208 teams, according to world football body FIFA.

"Many people see him as a hero. His fame will help our football programmes," Khek Ravy told AFP.

He added that no exact date has been set yet for Charlton's visit.

Charlton retired from professional football in 1973 after a career with Manchester United and England. He was crucial to England's 1966 World Cup victory, and appeared in 106 international matches, scoring 49 goals.