THE Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has assured the nation that the Chipolopolo's preparations for the 2013 Orange CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in South Africa will go on as planned.

FAZ communications manager Erick Mwanza said the Chipolopolo's preparations for their AFCON title defence are intact.

Reacting to media reports that Zambia's proposed 10-day tour of India later this month is hanging in balance, Mwanza said the Chipolopolo would not be distracted by such statements and promised to issue a comprehensive training programme for the team soon.

Mwanza said there was no need for concern or worry as FAZ was working out the best preparations for the Chipolopolo.

"We've looked at those articles about the India trip. We would like to assure the nation that our programme of the team won't be distracted and we're just waiting for one or two details before releasing a comprehensive training programme for the Chipolopolo. So nothing is hanging anywhere. There is no cause for concern or worry," Mwanza said.

According to the Times of India, who are quoting the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Zambia's proposed trip to Goa appeared unlikely because FAZ had not yet communicated its programme.

"There is no direct communication from Zambia with the AIFF. I am yet to hear from them.

"Zambia must write to us officially; we then have to seek permission from the Ministry of Sports since a foreign team is involved. As of now, there is no progress," AIFF general secretary, Kushal Das said.

Konkola Copper Mines is sponsoring the Chipolopolo's trip to Goa for the second year running.

Prior to winning the 2012 AFCON finals, Zambia trained in Goa last year and played two training matches against the Goa XI and the India national team.