See the list: Baždarević selects 28 players to play against Ireland

The coach of the BiH national football team, Mehmed Baždarević, today announced the list of players for the matches against Ireland in the play-off for the 2016 European Championship, writes the BiH news agency Patria.

The list includes 28 players for the upcoming two important matches that await the Dragons on November 13 in Zenica and November 16 in Dublin.

The play-off against Ireland will feature Asmir Begović, Ibrahim Šehić, Jasmin Burić, Mensur Mujdža, Emir Spahić, Toni Šunjić, Ermin Bičakčić, Ognjen Vranješ, Sead Kolašinac, Edin Cocalić, Ervin Zukanović, Marin Aničić, Muhamed Bešić, Miralem Pjanić, Srđan Grahovac, Haris Medunjanin, Anel Hadžić, Tino Sven Sušić, Senad Lulić, Sejad Salihović, Rade Krunić, Edin Višća, Edin Džeko, Milan Đurić, Vedad Ibišević, Ermin Zec, Armin Hodžić, and Izet Hajrović.

Although the Irish coach Martin O'Neill announced a wider list of 39 names, this selection faces numerous player injuries.

Before announcing the list, the general secretary of the NS/FS BiH, Jasmin Baković, addressed the present media representatives.

- After a poor start to the qualifiers, qualifying for the European Championship seemed like an impossible mission. However, we did not give up. Through responsible and continuous work, we have reached a situation where we can qualify for the Euro through the play-off. Coach Baždarević has laid a solid foundation, putting things back in place. The players have contributed maximally with their approach and character. We must not forget the fans who supported us throughout the qualifiers, as well as the media representatives who contributed to creating a positive atmosphere in and around the national team with their objective and affirmative reporting - said Baković.

Coach Baždarević said that the BiH selection faces a difficult task.

- We must do it in the best possible way. The players have done the biggest job and shown many good things. We have all been part of the team from day one: players, coaching staff, NS/FS BiH, media, fans. Regarding the player pool, the situation is now more favorable than before the last gathering. Ireland is a serious team and it will be tough in Zenica. They are a football nation and have a motivated team. Regardless of certain injury problems, Ireland has enough quality players playing in strong clubs and will be a tough opponent. It is important for our national team players to be ready and to play for their clubs. We are in a position to decide for ourselves, which is good for us - said Meša.

The list also includes one debutant, Rade Krunić, who plays for Empoli.

- He is playing well at his club and deserves our attention - said Baždarević.