LAHORE – Denmark-based goal keeper Yousuf Butt joined three domestic goal keepers in the selection-trial-cum-coaching camp at the Model Town Football Academy, being held in the build up for the Pakistan Youth team’s tour to Thailand and appearance in the 2012 Olympic Football Asian Qualifying Tournament.
Pakistan have been pitted against Malaysia, with the first leg to be played in Kuala Lumpur on February 23 and the return leg in Pakistan on March 9. “While they are citizens of various European countries, the players are eligible to play for Pakistan because of their family heritage” said PFF President Faisal Saleh Hayat.
“The availability of foreign players is broadening our base and opening the doors to Pakistanis around the world who want to play football. We also want to boost PPFL and PFF League with foreign players and, above all, improve our national squad,” assured Faisal. Yousof was eagerly-awaited in the camp as a knee injury had already forced out Naiman Khan of Agrupacion Deportiva Pablo Iglesias (ADPI) Rivas, Madrid (Spain), with the doctor advising him at least twelve weeks rest.