National football captain Mamunul Islam responded to the criticism of Bangladesh Football Federation president Kazi Salahuddin saying that he had done nothing wrong by skipping the first day’s training session for the Asian Games. Mamunul was unable to report to coach Lodewijk de Kruif due to the death of his uncle, which did not go well with Salahuddin. The BFF boss argued that his uncle died at least two days ago, so he could have joined the camp from the beginning if had wished.
Salahuddin saw a lack of commitment in several players and urged them to give their hearts out when they represent the national team. He also had criticised the players for refusing a small pocket money during the last SAFF championship where Bangladesh were eliminated from the first round.
‘We have a joint family and my uncle breathed his last on my shoulder. I have also some responsibilities for my family,’ Mamunul told reporters on Monday.
‘I took permission from the officials for a leave of one day. Now I don’t understand what my fault was. I had to travel to Chittagong to be with my uncle in his last few hours. If I was in Dhaka, I would definitely join the camp.’
Mamunul also denied the allegation that the players lacked commitment for the national team.
‘I believe that all the players try to give their best for the national team. Personally I give my best when I wear the national jersey,’ said Mamunul, arguably the best midfielder Bangladesh has at the moment.
Mamunul joined the camp at the BKSP on Monday.
-With New Age input
