Hamza's quick return allays Bangladesh's worries

Bangladesh midfielder Hamza Choudhury made an earlier-than-expected return from injury as he featured for Leicester City in their EFL Championship clash against Ipswich Town on Saturday.

The 28-year-old came on as an 82nd-minute substitute for Ricardo Pereira as the Foxes were held to a 1-1 draw away from home. Hamza’s impact on the game was limited due to the brief appearance, registering only four touches while winning one aerial duel and one of his two ground duels.

His return will nevertheless ease concerns for Bangladesh national team ahead of their final AFC Asian Cup qualifiers clash against Singapore on March 31.

The midfielder had earlier raised fears of a lengthy absence after suffering a knee injury during a league match against Charlton Athletic in late January, with initial reports suggesting damage to the medial collateral ligament that could sideline him for four to six weeks. 

Bangladesh are expected to play a friendly away to Vietnam on March 26 as part of their preparation for the Singapore tie, where Hamza’s presence in midfield could prove pivotal.