Footballer Hamza Chowdhury met with Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain today. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Mar 19, 2025 (BSS) - English Premier League footballer Hamza Chowdhury, who is going to make his debut in Bangladesh national football on March 25, paid a courtesy call on Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain today.

Bangladesh Football Federation president Tabith Awal was also present in the meeting held at Nagar Bhaban to discuss the ongoing crisis in football.

Hamza praised the sports advisor for his modern approach to sports in Bangladesh and his efforts to bring about radical changes.
 
Speaking about the new possibilities for Bangladesh football, Hamza said: "I am overwhelmed by the love of the people of Bangladesh and I'll do my best to take the country's football forward."

Stating Hamza's inclusion in the national team is a hope for the country's football, the advisor said, presence of a player like Hamza will be a cause of pressure for the opponents.

During the meeting, the sports advisor and BFF president discussed the crisis created before the Bangladesh team's participation in the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers match.
 
When asked about the complaints received from the fans, the BFF president said, there is no scope of creating any syndicate in the federation. If there is any such indication, the federation will take action.

Tabith Awal said he sees no crisis in the federation. "We did not drop Fahamedul as he's a talented player. But we wanted to give him more time."

"Bangladesh has a home match in June next and Fahamedul might be seen in the field very soon. I'll say there is nothing to be disappointed," he said.

Regarding the allegations made on social media about the syndicate and Fahamedul Islam's exclusion, the sports advisor said, there is no scope of depriving the deserving players.

The BFF must be vigilant to ensure that no one fall victim of nepotism or syndicates as far as the issue of selection of players is concern.

If there is any evidence of corruption, the government will take action against those involved, he said.

The advisor urged the BFF to take bold steps to address the crisis and move the country's football forward.

Wishing the Bangladesh team all the best ahead of the match against India, the adviser said, Hamza's induction would give the team more confidence. Result of the match will come in favor of Bangladesh, Asif hoped.