Ibou Touray has been recalled to the Gambia national team for their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The Bradford City defender will join the Scorpions for matches against Somalia and Ghana after his club duties this weekend.
Touray, 31, qualifies for Gambia through his father and has earned 27 caps, including appearances at the 2021 and 2023 AFCON finals. He returns to the squad after a period away, having prioritised his club career. "I’ve had an ongoing dialogue with the manager," Touray said.
The call-up comes as Bradford City sit third in League One with 12 points from six games. They travel to face 12th-placed Luton Town this weekend, looking to extend a three-game winning run that includes victories over Notts County, Leyton Orient and Mansfield Town.
Touray also spoke of his desire to help younger players in a Gambia squad that now includes Premier League and Serie A talent, raising the overall standard. His recent form for City has been recognised by supporters, with a fan song in his honour circulating on social media after the win at Notts County. The chant was first heard earlier this season at Sheffield Wednesday. "It's class, to be fair. I really enjoy it," Touray added, saying it gives him extra energy.
The Liverpool-born defender will link up with his national team later this weekend following the League One clash at Kenilworth Road. Bradford's next match after Luton is at home to Port Vale on September 26th.
More detail at Yorkshire Post
