Cabrera sees promise in Zayyan as camp starts without Mohammedan players

Six Mohammedan footballers, including a late call-up, failed to report to the national football team's preparation camp on Monday ahead of next month's two Asian Cup Qualifying ties against Hong Kong, China.

Head coach Javier Cabrera lately included Mohammedan centre-back Zahid Hossain Shanto to his previously announced 28-member preliminary squad. However, all the fix Mohammedan players were absent from reporting, apart from the three overseas-based players: Hamza Choudhury, Shamit Shome, and Fahamedul Islam.

The 20 other players from various clubs did report to the camp. The national team's training camp is set to begin tomorrow at the National Stadium in preparation for the home fixture on October 9 and the away match on October 14.

Amer Khan informed that Mohammedan had submitted a letter just one hour before the scheduled reporting time, stating that their players would not be released until 72 hours before the match.

Players and coaching staff pose for a photograph after joining camp at a hotel in Dhaka on Monday. Photo: Firoz Ahmed

"We received a letter from Mohammedan just one hour before the players were supposed to report. They informed us that their players are not available at the moment. Let's see what happens tomorrow, as the team management is working on it," Amer said. "As we had a set plan involving all players, the coaching staff will make further decisions tonight, considering Mohammedan's stance."

Amer confirmed that Fahamedul is expected to join the camp on Tuesday, while Hamza and Shamit are scheduled to arrive on October 6 and 7 respectively.

Cabrera acknowledged the disruption caused by the absence of key players but remained optimistic.

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Mohammedan to release players 72 hours before the Hong Kong tie

"It definitely has an impact. Honestly, we weren't expecting this situation, but we went through something similar in September. We managed then, and hopefully everything will be resolved soon," Cabrera said.

He also explained the selection of Zayyan Ahmed while omitting Cuba Mitchell and Issa Faisal from the squad.

"Zayyan performed well with the under-23s and plays in a position where we believe he can offer us something different. I observed a few of his under-23 training sessions and saw potential. Although he lacks experience in professional competitions, training with the senior team will push him to improve. In time, I believe he can become an important player," Cabrera stated.

Commenting on Cuba Mitchell, the Spaniard said: "We are positive about his talent and potential. However, he still needs more time. He hasn't had much playing time, even with the U-23s, so he's still in a phase of adaptation. I've been in touch with him, and he remains a player for the future."

As for Issa Faisal, the Spanish coach clarified the reason behind his omission.

"In the end, we had to make choices based on squad balance. We know Issa well and value his contributions. He's always been committed and has been an important part of the national team. But we wanted to assess Zayyan now. Since both play as left-backs, Issa was dropped from the current list."

Looking ahead, Cabrera noted that while focus remains on the two upcoming matches against Hong Kong, China, the team is also preparing for a key clash against India in November.

"While Hong Kong is the immediate focus, we're also aware of the exciting challenge ahead against India in November. A win now would give us a strong chance to stay alive in the qualifiers."