Choudhury's FA Cup Shirt Up for Charity, Iqbal Stands Strong Amidst Abuse, Markanday Reflects on Stunning Goal

Welcome back to Dev's Digest, your go-to source for all things British South Asians in football. Today, we’ve got some exciting news and heartfelt stories from the pitch. Hamza Choudhury's iconic shirt from Leicester City’s triumphant 2021 FA Cup final against Chelsea is heading to auction later this month. This special framed piece will be sold at a charity event for Children Not Numbers, aimed at supporting children impacted by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, organized by Nujum Sports. Choudhury, who recently ended a long stint with Leicester to join Sheffield United, will be present at the London event on October 25. It’s a fantastic cause that highlights the impact of sports beyond the pitch. In international news, Fulham's Farhaan Ali Wahid made headlines by debuting for the Bangladesh national team, becoming just the second Premier League player to represent the nation. The young talent, currently on loan at Boreham Wood, scored in his second match against Indonesia, showcasing his potential. Meanwhile, Dillon De Silva from Oxford City found the net for Sri Lanka, contributing to their 3-0 win over Seychelles, and then followed it up with another goal in a rematch, emphasizing his growing influence on the international stage. On a more serious note, British South Asian footballers are rallying around Zidane Iqbal after the Dundee United star revealed he faced verbal and online abuse while playing for Iraq. Iqbal, who proudly represents his British-Pakistani heritage, courageously confronted the negativity. Mal Benning, who recently received recognition at the Asian Football Awards, expressed his support for Iqbal. "It’s upsetting to hear about the abuse he faced. Zidane is a role model for South Asians in football, and we need to stand together as a community for him," he stated. Kam Kandola, who also won an award, echoed these sentiments, praising Iqbal for standing firm in his identity. "It’s crucial for him to take pride in his heritage, and I admire how he handled the situation," Kandola remarked. In other exciting news, Mariam Mahmood of Wrexham took home the Women's Player award at the Asian Football Awards, while her teammate Layla Banaras was recognized as the Women’s Young Player of the Year. Brandon Khela is buzzing about the possibility of Robbie Savage becoming the next Peterborough United manager. The Forest Green Rovers chairman confirmed negotiations are underway, and Khela believes he could learn immensely from Savage’s experience at the highest level. "I’m really looking forward to whoever comes in as manager. There’s so much I can still improve on, and if it’s him, I’d love to soak up his knowledge," Khela said. Trailblazer Dilan Markanday also made waves recently with a sensational goal for Chesterfield, reminiscent of his days at Tottenham's academy. Ahead of their crucial match against Tranmere, he reflected on the confidence that led to his stunning strike, which he noted was the kind of goal he used to score with ease back in his youth. "With just minutes left, I had the energy to push forward instead of holding onto the ball. I ignored the instructions and went for it, and it paid off," Markanday shared, showcasing his fearless spirit as he prepares for the weekend clash.