Former Sunderland youth and current Bashundhara Kings midfielder Cuba Mitchel has been called up to the Bangladesh national team for the first time ahead of upcoming matches against Nepal and India.
Cuba joined Sunday’s training session at the Bashundhara Kings Arena as a late addition to the squad.
Head coach Javier Cabrera explained the decision, citing injuries to winger Mohammad Ibrahim and full-back Rahmat Mia, which prompted the inclusion of two new players. Forward Mursed Ali of Fortis FC is the other addition alongside 19-year-old Cuba.
“We have been aware of Cuba’s talent and had planned for him to get more playing time. After the injuries to Ibrahim and Rahmat in the last practice match, we discussed with the staff and decided to give an opportunity to two promising players — Mursed and Cuba. It’s a good chance for them,” Cabrera told reporters.
Addressing Cuba’s immediate prospects, the Spanish coach said:
“He has only four training sessions before the Nepal game and seven sessions before the India match. But we are confident he will improve quickly and reach the level we expect. Hopefully, he will get a chance to play.”
The Men in Red and Green will face Nepal in a friendly on November 13, before taking on India in their fifth AFC Asian Cup qualifying match at the National Stadium on November 18.
