Uganda Cranes defender Elio Capradossi has been omitted from coach Paul Joseph Putt's latest squad despite appearing as a substitute for Universitatea Cluj on September 7.
Putt cited injury as the reason for Capradossi's absence from the squad announced two days later on September 9.
The Romanian club player featured in a 0-4 top-flight defeat raising doubts about the injury claim.
Capradossi missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after helping Uganda qualify amid reports of a payment dispute with FUFA officials.
Sources from the Cranes camp at the time indicated he suffered a training injury before the Tunisia group game.
No official confirmation has ever linked his previous absence to the alleged indiscipline over promised bonuses.
Other notable absentees include Salim Jamal, Uche Ikpeazu, John Paul Dembe, Rogers Bobosi Byaruhanga and Jude Ssemugabi.
Putt explained some players lack clubs or match fitness while others are returning from long injuries.
Uganda faces Tunisia away on September 24 then Libya in Hoima on September 29 in AFCON 2027 qualifiers.
Two friendlies against DR Congo follow on October 2 and 5 offering Putt a chance to test alternatives.
The argument doing the rounds in Kampala is whether Capradossi's repeated absence signals a tactical shift or an unresolved standoff with the federation.
Capradossi's window to convince Putt he belongs in Uganda's plans is narrowing with each squad announcement.
Uganda Cranes upcoming fixtures
- September 24: vs Tunisia (away) - AFCON 2027 qualifier
- September 29: vs Libya (Hoima) - AFCON 2027 qualifier
- October 2: vs DR Congo (friendly)
- October 5: vs DR Congo (friendly)
Source: Uganda Observer
