Dooley names 23-man Bangladesh squad for San Marino friendly

Bangladesh national football team head coach Thomas Dooley has announced his first final squad since taking charge, selecting a 23-man roster for the upcoming FIFA international friendly against San Marino on June 5.

The match will mark Dooley’s debut on the Bangladesh bench and is being viewed as the first major step in the team’s preparations under the German-American tactician.

After four days of intensive training at the Kings Arena camp, the 65-year-old coach trimmed his preliminary squad and finalised the players he believes can execute his plans in the opening match of a new era for Bangladesh football.

Several players were cut from the training camp, including Rahamat Mia, Abdullah Omar, Shakil Hossain, Monjurul Rahman, Ibrahim, Mirajul Islam and Minhajul Karim Swadhin.

Meanwhile, the squad features the return of several familiar faces. Goalkeeper Anisur Rahman Zico, defender Isha Faisal, and forward Rafiqul Islam have all earned recalls after lengthy absences from the national setup.

The squad continues to be led by captain Jamal Bhuiyan, while experienced campaigners such as Topu Barman, Tariq Raihan Kazi, Mitul Marma, and Hamza Dewan Choudhury are expected to play key roles as Bangladesh seek a positive start under their new coach.

Bangladesh Squad:

Goalkeepers: Mitul Marma, Sujon Hossain, Anisur Rahman Zico.

Defenders: Tariq Raihan Kazi, Topu Barman, Shakil Ahad Topu, Bishwanath Ghosh, Saad Uddin, Zayan Ahmed, Taj Uddin, Isha Faisal.

Midfielders: Jamal Bhuiyan, Sohel Rana, Sohel Rana Jr., Hridoy, Hamza Dewan Choudhury, Shamit Shome, Sheikh Morsalin, Syed Kazem Kirmani Shah.

Forwards: Fahmidul Islam, Shahriar Emon, Faisal Ahmed Fahim, Rafiqul Islam.