Botafogo striker from Brazil, Kadir Barría, has been named in Panama's list of foreign-based players called up for friendly matches against Bolivia and Mexico, to be played on January 18 and 22 respectively. The announcement was made by the Panamanian Football Federation (FPF) through its social networks, informing that in addition to Barría, goalkeepers Eddie Roberts (Estudiantes de Mérida, Venezuela) and John Gunn (New England Revolution II, United States); defenders Richard Peralta (Monagas SC, Venezuela), Jorge Gutiérrez (Deportivo La Guaira, Venezuela) and Daniel Aparicio (Real España, Honduras); and midfielder Jovani Welch (Monagas SC, Venezuela) have also been called up. Barría, considered one of the rising stars of Panamanian football internationally, began January playing in the Sub-20 Copa do Brazil tournament but was called up to the professional team of his club, with whom he was preseason training. "These players (foreign-based) received authorization from their clubs to be in both preparation matches as they are meetings outside the so-called FIFA dates," explained the FPF in a press release. The FPF's information added that in the coming days, the list of players called up to train who play in the Panamanian Football League (LPF) will be announced. Local league players, along with the foreign-based players, will report this Monday, January 12, for the start of training at COS Sports Plaza, in Metro Park. The final list of players called up by coach Thomas Christiansen will be announced during the upcoming week prior to the trip to Bolivia. The National Team has scheduled its departure this Thursday, January 15, heading to Bolivia for its first international match.
