UEFA licensed coach Mark Cox joins Bangladesh U-20 for SAFF Championship

The Bangladesh Football Federation BFF has appointed Irish coach Mark Cox as consultant to the national under 20 team ahead of the SAFF U 20 Championship in Maldives later this month.

Cox, who holds a UEFA A licence, will work with the squad for one month during the regional tournament scheduled from March 23 to April 4, according to BFF Vice President and Development Committee Chairman Nasser Shahrear Zahedee.

“He has been appointed for one month as consultant coach of the Bangladesh U 20 team for the upcoming SAFF U 20 Championship in Maldives,” Zahedee said on Friday.

The Irish coach is set to accompany head coach Golam Rabbani Choton throughout the competition. “Mark Cox will be travelling with Golam Rabbani Choton during the tournament,” Zahedee confirmed.

The federation is also considering longer term plans for its youth structure. Zahedee said the BFF is reviewing the credentials of four to five candidates, including Cox, for a potential one year appointment as youth development coach. A detailed roadmap for youth development is expected to be unveiled on Sunday.

Cox brings a broad range of international experience to the role. He previously worked as a coach developer with the Football Association of England and has served as an academy manager. Over his career, he has gained coaching experience in five different countries.

His short term assignment is seen as part of the BFF’s wider effort to strengthen grassroots and age group football as Bangladesh prepares for regional competition.