Many overseas footballers participate in various leagues across Bangladesh. Several have expressed a desire to play for the Bangladesh national team.
Among them, the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) has granted the opportunity to Nigerian-born footballer Elita Kingsley. We can now add the names of Suleiman Diabate and Robson Robinho to that list.
There have been rumours that Mohammedan Sporting forward Suleiman Diabate is keen to play for Bangladesh, but has not received backing. However, the BFF has already begun working on the possibility of Diabate playing for the national team.
BFF general secretary Imran Hossain Tushar said: "We met with Diabate to discuss some matters. For instance, elite passports need to be surrendered to Nigerian authorities and Bangladeshi passports obtained. He confirmed he can acquire dual citizenship."
"We have initiated communication with the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding his certificate while residing in Bangladesh. This is crucial according to FIFA regulations. We are working in the interests of both footballers and hope to provide positive news soon."
Another prominent figure in Bangladeshi football is Bashundhara Kings forward Robson Robinho. He has also expressed his desire to play for Bangladesh.
The General Secretary stated that if everything goes smoothly, efforts will be made for him to play for the country as well. He said: "Robson will need to wait a little longer. He will complete five years next season. Then, if he is still interested, we will work with him too.
