India’s head coach Manolo Marquez has announced India’s probable squad of 28 players for June fixtures. The Blue Tigers are set to return to action in June with an international friendly against Thailand, followed by an away fixture against Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
The selected players will assemble in Kolkata for a 10-day training camp on May 18. FC Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, Mohun Bagan Super Giant forward Suhail Ahmad Bhat and Punjab FC’s Nikhil Prabhu have earned their maiden call-up to the squad. East Bengal FC defender Anwar Ali returns to the national squad after recuperating from injury.
Sunil Chhetri has been retained in the squad after the veteran took a U-turn on his retirement decision to play against Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, India played a goalless draw against Bangladesh in their opening match of the AFC Asian Cup and they would want to be at their best against Hong Kong.
India will play the International friendly against Thailand on June 4. After the friendly, the Blue Tigers will head to Hong Kong for their qualification round match on June 10.
Blue Tigers’ 28-member probables for Kolkata camp:
Goalkeepers: Hrithik Tiwari, Vishal Kaith, Gurmeet Singh Chahal, Amrinder Singh.
Defenders: Naorem Roshan Singh, Rahul Bheke, Konsham Chinglensana Singh, Anwar Ali, Thangjam Boris Singh, Sandesh Jhingan, Asish Rai, Subhasish Bose, Mehtab Singh, Tekcham Abhishek Singh, Nikhil Prabhu.
Midfielders: Suresh Singh Wangjam, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Udanta Singh Kumam, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Ashique Kuruniyan, Brandon Fernandes.
Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Irfan Yadwad, Manvir Singh, Suhail Ahmad Bhat, Lallianzuala Chhangte.
Head Coach: Manolo Márquez