Johnathan McKinstry has unveiled a 25-man squad for The Gambia’s upcoming international friendly against Iran, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Turkey, on May 29.

The Scorpions coach has handed a maiden senior national team call-up to 19-year-old defender Elving Mendy, who currently plays for Istanbulspor in the Turkish second-tier league.

There is also a return for Ebrima Colley, who rejoins the national team after a lengthy absence, while Alieu Fadera is back in the squad following his recovery from injury.

However, notable absentees include Musa Barrow and Sheriff Sinyan. Youngsters Baboucarr Faal and Bubacarr Tambedou, both enjoying impressive form in their respective leagues, were also left out of the squad. Ebrima Singhateh is also snup again despite on fine form and the minutes he plays with his club in the Czech Republic.

Meanwhile, the Gambia Football Federation revealed a fortnight ago that discussions were ongoing to arrange another international friendly match for The Scorpions, potentially against Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau in The Gambia.

Since that announcement, however, no further update has been provided regarding the proposed fixture.

By Ebrima KB Sonko