With last Sunday's announcement confirming a break for 18 rebel players embroiled in a dispute with head coach Peter Butler, their absence from Bangladesh's women's squad for the upcoming FIFA friendlies against hosts UAE seemed inevitable.

As expected, Butler on Thursday unveiled a 23-member squad, opting for a fresh lineup that excludes several senior players who were instrumental in Bangladesh's SAFF Championship triumph last year.

Instead, the squad features a mix of experience and youth, with eight new faces earning call-ups. Butler acknowledged that patience would be key with this group.

" It is a mix of 23 players -- some experienced and others I just find in faith. It is a young group. I would prefer to give them time. Be patient with them. They may make mistakes, but they will learn as we will give them game time in our endeavour," Butler said in a video message.

Stressing the importance of attitude and commitment, he added, "The most important thing for me is that these players approach their work with the right mindset, show respect, and deliver a performance that does justice to representing Bangladesh."

Bangladesh will face the UAE on February 26 before playing the same opponents again on March 2. The squad is set to depart for the UAE on February 24.

Squad: Yearzan Begum, Mili Akter, Meghla Rani Roy, Kohati Kisku, Joynob Bibi, Afeida Khandokar, Surman Jannat, Halima Akther, Sapna Rani, Aririn Khatun, Aklima Khatun, Shaheda Akter Ripa, Ayonto Bala Mahato, Oyeshi Khatun, Tonima Bishwas, Munki Akther, Bonna Khatun, Mrs Sultana, Kanom Akhter, Arpita Bishwas Arpita, Sourovi Akter Prity, Mariam Binta Hanna, Nabiran Khatun.