India will receive Sunil Chhetri’s boost for the March Internationals as the veteran makes a return to the team. Chhetri had decided to retire after playing his swansong against Kuwait in June last year but he is all set to make a return for the Blue Tigers.

India will take part in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Third Round. Marquez’s team will play a friendly against the Maldives on March 19 in Shillong before hosting Bangladesh at the same venue in their opening qualifier.

After taking the coaching baton from former coach Igor Stimac, Marquez is yet to register a single win as head coach of the national team. India has managed three draws and has suffered one loss under the Spaniard’s tutelage.

The veteran manager revealed how he convinced in-form Chhetri to return to the Indian squad. Chhetri has scored a dozen goals and has provided two assists for Bengaluru FC in the ongoing Indian Super League and has played a key role in the team’s qualification for the playoffs.

“The qualification for the Asian Cup is very crucial for us. Given the importance of the tournament and the matches ahead, I discussed with Sunil Chhetri about making a comeback to strengthen the National Team. He agreed, and so we have included him in the squad,” Marquez said.

India squad ahead of March international break:

Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Vishal Kaith.

Defenders: Asish Rai, Boris Singh Thangjam, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Hmingthanmawia, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Roshan Singh Naorem, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose.

Midfielders: Ashique Kuruniyan, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Brandon Fernandes, Brison Fernandes, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Lalengmawia, Liston Colaco, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Suresh Singh Wangjam.

Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Farukh Choudhary, Irfan Yadwad, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh.