Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put has explained why Khalid Aucho has been included in the squad to face Botswana despite the midfielder having announced his retirement from international football.

Aucho, who called time on his 13-year international career on October 12, has been named in Uganda’s 30-man squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Botswana.

Put revealed that the decision was driven by a desire to give the experienced midfielder an organised send-off in recognition of his contribution to the national team.

“Aucho announced that he had retired from the national team. However, I reached out to him, appreciating that he is a great personality. He is a great person not only on the pitch but also off the pitch,” Put said during the squad unveiling at FUFA House in Mengo.

“But for such a recognised player, Khalid needs an organised send-off. So we have named him on the team so that he can have time with his friends on the team but also greet the fans.

“He appreciated the plan, and I think he deserves it, having served the nation to that magnitude.”

The home fixture against Botswana, scheduled for November 14 at Hoima City Stadium, could therefore provide an opportunity for Ugandan fans to celebrate Aucho’s service to the Cranes.

The midfielder earned 77 caps for Uganda and served as captain, becoming one of the team’s prominent figures during his 13-year international career.

His inclusion is intended to allow him to reunite with his teammates and bid farewell to the supporters who have followed his journey with the national team.

Uganda will face Botswana in a double-header as the Cranes pursue qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with Aucho’s potential farewell adding an emotional dimension to the home encounter.