UK-based midfielder Hamza Choudhury has been included in the 38-member preliminary squad for Bangladesh's first Asian Cup Qualifiers match against India.
Bangladesh Football Federation announced the squad Sunday.
While Hamza’s inclusion was expected following FIFA’s approval, Italy-based young midfielder Fahamedul Islam was the surprise name in the squad.
The much-anticipated match will be held in Shilong, India on March 25.
Spanish head coach Javier Cabrera said Hamza, who recently moved from English Premier League outfit Leicester City to Championship side Sheffield United, would have “great” impact in the team.
"Hamza Choudhury is now playing for Sheffield United and he has played both of their last games, he was in the starting line-up. Of course, I am expecting a great impact from him," Cabrera said in a video message Sunday.
The 18-year old Fahamedul plays for Italian Serie D (fourth tier) side Olbia Calcio.
The left-back has previously played for Ligiorna and Livorno after being in the ranks of the Sampdoria youth team.
"He's (Fahamedul) still young but has already played at a good senior level in Europe. So we believe he might provide a good boost to the team," Cabrera said.
Cabrera also picked a few fresh faces from the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League and recalled a number of former national players.
Goalkeeper Shakib Al Hasan, defender Zahid Hossain, forwards Arif Hossain (Mohammedan) and Al-Amin (Police FC) were the new names in the squad.
Cabrera also called back former No. 1 goalkeeper Anisur Rahman Zico, defenders Tariq Raihan Kazi, Sushanto Tripura and Yeasin Khan, midfielder Mohammad Sohel Rana and winger Mohammad Ibrahim – all of whom played for national team previously.
The squad will be trimmed to 28 players before a two-week training camp.
The team will then be joined by Hamza and Fahamedul.