England-born midfielder Hamza Dewan Chowdhury and Canada-based Shamit Shome are set to join Bangladesh's national football camp ahead of Thursday's crucial AFC Asian Cup Qualifier against Hong Kong in Dhaka.
Hamza is due to report today (Monday), while Shome will arrive on Tuesday, completing head coach Javier Cabrera's 30-man preliminary squad for the decisive fixture at the Bangabandhu National Stadium, kicking off at 8 PM on the day.
Their inclusion brings a major boost to Cabrera's preparations as Bangladesh aim to revive their fading hopes of qualification. Both players, who ply their trade abroad, are expected to strengthen the midfield, a department that has lacked control and creativity in the previous matches.
The match carries enormous significance for Bangladesh. With one draw and one defeat so far, the team stand on the brink of elimination. Captain Jamal Bhuyan has already labelled it a "do-or-die" encounter. In contrast, Hong Kong arrive in Dhaka with two wins out of two and will look to secure qualification with another victory.
For Hamza, currently with Leicester City, the game will mark his fourth international appearance. He debuted against India in March and scored his first goal for Bangladesh against Bhutan in June. Shome, who represents Cavalry FC in Canada, made his debut against Singapore earlier this year and will feature for only the second time in national colours.
Adding to the youthful energy in the squad, US-based defender Zayan Ahmed may earn his maiden senior cap after impressing with the U-23 team. Meanwhile, Italian club Olbia Calcio forward Fahmidul Islam, who featured in the matches against Bhutan and Singapore, is expected to retain his place.
As the hosts prepare to face a confident Hong Kong side, Bangladesh will look to their returning overseas stars for the spark and steel needed to keep their Asian Cup dream alive.
