Bangladesh Premier League champions Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club promised to retain their squad that gave phenomenal success domestically and internationally as the club eye more glory during the forthcoming season. In addition to winning the domestic league title, Jamal also qualified for the AFC Cup play-offs which earned them plaudits from many corners including one from the outgoing FIFA president Sepp Blatter.
Bangladesh Football Federation president Kazi Salahudiin handed over the congratulatory letter to Jamal president Manzur Kader at a programme held at the club premises on Sunday.
Jamal, who won back-to-back Bangladesh Premier League titles, recently, became Group-B champions in the AFC Cup play-offs qualification round by beating Macau’s champions Casa Benfica 4-1 and drawing with Kyrgyzstan’s FC Alga 1-1 in Bishkek.
Jamal president Kader praised his side for delivering brilliant result both locally and internationally.
‘I am really grateful to my players for their outstanding performances,’ said the club president.
‘We travelled abroad four times and every time except 2013 IFA Shield we were crowned champions.’
Kader promised that they will again form a strong team to continue their success in the local and international arena.
‘We have a hat-trick league title up for grab and we don’t want to miss it. I have full confidence on my players who are equally eager for the success.
‘We have a great opportunity to take the team to a higher level after the qualification of AFC Cup play-offs and we do not want to lose that chance as well.’
Kader informed that the club’s growing reputation at international level earned them an invitation from Indian Super League franchise Atletico de Kolkata for a friendly match on September 19 in Shiliguri, India.
‘We felt really honoured by the invitation and we are considering it,’ said Kader.
‘We are really interested to play the game but we have to think about some issues including the availability of our foreign players who are scheduled to fly home.
‘We also have to think about the availability of our local players, many of whom will be engaged with their national duties.
‘After considering these issues carefully we will make our final decision.’
During the programme Jamal also greeted the national Under-16 football team for winning their SAFF crown recently.
DBL Group, a financial partner of Jamal, awarded Tk 10000 each for the all members of the young Bangladesh team.
-With New Age input
