Sports Desk:

The name Reasat Islam Khaton is a great regret for Bangladesh as well as a lot of glory. Although Reasat was born in Dhaka, he grew up in Germany as he moved to the European country with his family when he was only 5 years old. Reasat dreamed of being a footballer while growing up in Germany.

He is the first Bangladeshi to play a competitive match for Europe’s top-level club. He has played football at different levels in different countries including Germany, Wales, the Philippines and Venezuela in his long career.

Reasat has always been attracted to Bangladesh. So came to Bangladesh twice after getting the call to play for the red-green. In 2013, he was called up to the Bangladesh national team for the first time. Later in 2015, he got a second call-up for an international match against Singapore.

The midfielder was called up to the national team twice while in top form. Jamal Bhuiyan and co. also practiced with him. He was also on the coach’s list of favourites. But for ‘unseen reasons’ he had to return disappointed twice.

Reasat’s dream of playing for Bangladesh has remained elusive. However, at the end of his football career, Reasat started anew in football. He is serving as the assistant coach of KSV Hessen Kassel’s under-23 team in Germany’s fourth division.

Reasat is also happy with the new journey. He said, it is a pleasure for me to represent Bangladesh anywhere. I would be more happy if I could contribute something to Bangladesh football as a player. It didn’t happen. Now focusing on my coaching. Keep praying for me.