Manchester United invite Thai cave survivors to Old Trafford

Manchester United have invited the Thai football team rescued from a cave after 17 days underground to a match at Old Trafford this season.

The 12 boys and their coach became trapped in the cave system after heavy rain in northern Thailand on June 23, and the mission to bring them back to the surface has gripped the world's attention.

On Tuesday, the final members of the team were brought out to complete the rescue, and the news has been welcomed across football.

United hailed the news and offered a trip to Manchester during the 2018-19 campaign for the group and their rescuers.

"Manchester United is greatly relieved to learn that the 12 footballers and their coach trapped in a cave in Thailand are now safe," the club posted on Facebook. 

"Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

"We would be honoured to welcome the team from the Wild Boars Football Club and their rescuers to Old Trafford this coming season."