BFF president: Hamza will inspire a generation of footballers

BFF president Tabith Awal spoke extensively from his residence in Gulshan on Friday about the significance of Leicester City midfielder Hamza Choudhury's clearance to represent Bangladesh.

For Awal, this milestone is more than a personal achievement for the 27-year-old—it's a moment of inspiration for a generation of players, both within the country and across the diaspora.

"We believe Bangladesh has a lot of talent, whether within the country or abroad. Players from Italy, Germany, or South America—whoever they may be—I believe Hamza will inspire them to wear the Bangladesh jersey," Awal remarked.

Hamza, who previously represented England at youth level, expressed a similar sentiment, underscoring the emotional connection to his roots.

"That feeling of pride, of representing your people – you can't recreate that," he shared. "Home means different things to different people, but when you represent yours, it's such a genuine, pure feeling."

Awal emphasised that Hamza's involvement could set a precedent for other expatriates to follow.

"We hope to identify more expatriates like Hamza Choudhury and inspire them to play for Bangladesh. Additionally, BFF will work on providing detailed information about such players," he said.

Hamza himself touched on the importance of representation, particularly for South Asian communities in football.

"Just seeing a familiar face does so much," he explained. "There's been quite a lot in the media recently about people in our community not having a role model in football. It's not necessarily about someone who looks like them but someone who comes from the same background or has the same upbringing. They can reach the same level that I have, and hopefully even surpass it."

Awal echoed Hamza's sentiments, pointing out how his inclusion could bolster the national team's development. "The team will become stronger, the defence will be more organised, and the attacking side will also need to improve," he stated.

The president acknowledged the logistical hurdles that come with integrating international players into the national team but remained optimistic. "Professional footballers have the ability to adapt anywhere, and so do our players. Those who play abroad also possess that adaptability," he said.

Hamza, who has been vocal about the challenges faced by South Asian players at the grassroots level, called for greater inclusion.

"Clubs need to broaden their horizons and go to leagues and tournaments where young South Asian players are playing," he noted. "I grew up with quite a few Bangladeshi kids who were just as good as me, if not better. There's so much talent out there, but we need to make sure we're providing access and opportunity."

While speculation about Hamza's debut in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers against India is rife, Awal remained cautious.

"There's no information on that yet. I can't answer all the questions at the moment. However, we are planning for the AFC Asian Cup," he said.

Hamza, too, seemed eager to don the red-and-green jersey. "To be able to go back to my country of origin and represent the people I grew up with, it means everything to me – it fills me with so much joy and pride," he said.

Beyond the immediate impact of Hamza's inclusion, Awal is focused on the bigger picture.

"Players like Hamza, and others who may join in the future, will enhance our reputation. For now, we are not focusing on branding value but on building a winning mentality. We want to move beyond thinking about losing narrowly and focus on developing a mindset to win," he asserted.