Bangladesh’s national football team will welcome Premier League midfielder Hamza Choudhury into action in his first home match on Wednesday as they take on Bhutan in a preparatory friendly at the National Stadium — their first international match at the venue in nearly five years.

Head coach Javier Cabrera confirmed that Hamza, who joined the camp on Monday, will be available for selection in the Bhutan match

“Hamza will be available tomorrow,” Cabrera said at Tuesday’s pre-match press conference. 

“He joined training yesterday and has shown great ambition and willingness to play. Everyone, including the foreign-based players, is working very well.”

This match serves as the final tune-up before Bangladesh face Singapore in their do-or-die qualifier, and Cabrera hinted at a “mixed approach” against Bhutan, with opportunities for fringe players.

“Some players will have chances against Bhutan,” he said. 

“It is important to take those opportunities as part of our preparation for Singapore.”

The coach also confirmed that Fahamedul Islam will also be in action.

Canadian-based midfielder Shamit Shome will arrive on Wednesday and is being primed for the crucial Asian Cup qualifier against Singapore on June 10.

While Shamit won’t be available for the Bhutan match due to travel schedules, Cabrera said the midfielder is already in tactical discussions with the coaching staff.

“I’ve already spoken to him about the role I’m thinking of. He’s very open and ready to adjust,” the coach said. 

“But we need to be careful with him after a long journey and help him settle in the group. I’m sure Shamit will be ready to give his best in the Singapore match.”

Captain Jamal Bhuyan echoed the sentiment but underlined the bigger goal ahead. “We will give our best tomorrow, but our main focus is on the 10th of June,” he said.

The national camp currently has 25 players, with Shamit set to become the 26th upon arrival.

Meanwhile, Cabrera also confirmed that England-based forward Cuba Mitchell, who has been on the radar recently, will not be part of this camp.