Coach Paul Put has explained why defenders Elio Capraddosi and Jordan Obita are not part of the Uganda Cranes squad summoned to face Botswana.

Put on Wednesday morning at the FUFA Complex in Mengo revealed a squad of 30 players that will face Botswana in a double header of the 2027 AFCON Qualifiers next month.

The Belgian tactician explained that both Caproddosi and Obita were part of his plans but have been unfortunate with injuries and thus could not make it to the squad.

On Elio Capradossi, he said: “You know, with Elio, he has been suffering from a long injury, but we were very hopeful because two weeks ago, he started to play, but after 30 minutes, he got injured again. I have been in communication with him, but after medical tests, it was confirmed that he is injured again.”

Capradossi plays at FC Universitatea Cluj in Romania and was named in the starting team against Argeş Piteşti on Monday, 19th October, but got substituted after 13 minutes.

On Friday last week, he was not part of the team in their 3-0 home win against Corvinul Hunedoara.

Put further said: “I have discussed with Elio, and it’s better that we are patient until he returns to full capacity because if you try to force a player to come in such a situation, that is not enough for a national team.”

On Jordan Obita, Put said: “It is a little bit the same story with Elio. Jordan was expected to be in the selection last weekend at his club; unfortunately, he didn’t make it. I’m very honest with the players that they must be active, and it is in their best interest. So Jordan is very understanding, and we only hope he recovers fully.”

Uganda will host Botswana on 14th December at the Hoima City Stadium before the two teams face off three days later.