Saif AWOL at press meet

The pre-final press conference of the Walton Federation Cup at the Bangladesh Football Federation yesterday set an unprecedented stance of unprofessionalism as one of the finalists -- Saif Sporting Club -- were represented by their general secretary and an assistant manager instead of head coach and captain.

While the coach and captain of the other finalist team -- Bashundhara Kings -- were present right on time, even waiting half an hour for the arrival of BFF officials and sponsors, the coach and players of Saif SC were busy preparing for the final.

The Saif SC officials present there claimed that they could not change their practice schedule, which was set prior to the notice of the press conference, as their rented ground had to split sessions for two teams of the club.

However, BFF general secretary Abu Nayeem Shohag claimed that they had informed the club about the press conference schedule in written and had commitment from the club that at least a key player will be made available for the event.

He also said that the matter will be investigated by the disciplinary committee for a decision regarding the breach of standard protocol.

Saif coach Paul Put, when contacted later, apologised to media for not being able to be present at the event.