Butler vows to fight cancer, BFF moves for interim appointment

Bangladesh women's football team head coach Peter Butler has been diagnosed with cancer, forcing the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) to look for an interim replacement ahead of the upcoming international friendlies against Singapore.

The 60-year-old Englishman, who returned to England in late October after falling ill, confirmed his diagnosis while speaking to local English-language media. However, he vowed to fight the disease and expressed hope of returning to Bangladesh.

“I can’t say precisely yet, but I’ve got cancer. I’m a fighter, I’ll fight it,” Butler said.

The coach admitted that he would not be able to resume his duties anytime soon.

“I’m not gonna be right for a while. I’m not in good shape,” he added.

With Bangladesh scheduled to face Singapore twice in early December, the BFF sought Butler's permission to appoint an interim coach. The Englishman agreed, understanding the situation.

“Yes, they asked permission… I said no problem, I understand the situation… You never know, I’m a fighter I’ll be back,” he said.

As reported in Daily Sun on Saturday, French coach Éric Meyer has emerged as a possible replacement for Butler on an interim basis. BFF sources said discussions with the UEFA A-licence holder are at an advanced stage, and he could take charge of the national team for both Singapore friendlies.

Meyer has previously worked as head coach of French regional club FC des Ballons and as an assistant coach and co-coach at FC Haute-Moselotte. However, limited information is available about his coaching credentials.

Meanwhile, Butler expressed satisfaction with the support he received from BFF president Tabith Awal during his illness. Tabith also expressed concern over the Englishman's health, saying, “Peter Butler has been diagnosed with cancer. We wish him a speedy recovery.”

The women's team have been preparing at the Korean Export Processing Zone (KEPZ) in Chattogram since 30 October. Assistant coach Abul Hossain has been supervising the training sessions, while Butler has continued to provide instructions from England through a WhatsApp group.

The squad are scheduled to leave for Singapore on 29 November, with the two friendlies set for 1 and 5 December.

Butler joined Bangladesh in early 2023 to take charge of the BFF Elite Academy before being appointed head coach of the women's national team ahead of the SAFF Championship. Under his guidance, Bangladesh won the SAFF title for a second time and subsequently qualified for the Women's Asian Cup for the first time in 2024.

The Under-20 women's team also made their maiden appearance in the Asian Cup during his tenure. Butler's current contract with the BFF is set to expire at the end of this year.