Women's national team coach Peter Butler diagnosed with cancer, to be treated in England
Peter Butler, head coach of the Bangladesh women's national football team, has been diagnosed with cancer. The 60-year-old English coach himself confirmed the news to various Bangladeshi media outlets. Several sources in the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) have also confirmed that he has cancer.
Butler suddenly fell ill towards the end of last October. He then took leave and returned to his home country, England. Since returning to England, his physical condition has not improved much. Before leaving for England, he had already consulted doctors in Bangladesh for his other problems.
Speaking about his latest physical condition, Butler said, "I cannot say anything definite right now. But I have been diagnosed with cancer. I am a fighter, and I will see this through to the end."
According to BFF sources, a tumour has been detected in Peter Butler's liver. Following doctors' advice, he wants to receive treatment in England itself. He also wants to take the next steps from there.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh women's team will play two friendly matches against Singapore on 1 and 5 December. Since 30 October, the women's team has been holding an intensive residential camp at the KEPZ ground in Chattogram under assistant coach Abul Hossain.
In Butler's absence, the BFF wants to hand over charge of the team to an interim coach even before that. The name of French coach Eric Meyer is now the most discussed on the BFF's table.
English coach Peter Butler joined the Bangladesh Football Federation in 2023. He began by taking charge of the BFF Elite Academy.
In March 2024, he was given charge of the women's national team. Under him, Bangladesh won the women's SAFF Championship title for the second time in 2024.
After the SAFF triumph, fresh hope had dawned in Bangladesh women's football. News of the cancer of the coach behind that success has spread concern across the football fraternity.
Butler will now take his next steps in England as advised by his doctors. The BFF is expected to announce its decision soon on his treatment and the interim charge of the team.
