Jaka Bijol named in Slovenia squad for Nations League double-header

Jaka Bijol in Slovenia training kit. Photo: Leeds United.

Leeds United defender Jaka Bijol has been selected for Slovenia’s November Nations League squad as his country prepare to face Switzerland and North Macedonia.

The club confirmed his inclusion on Wednesday. Bijol will be part of Boštjan Cesar’s squad for the final two matches of their league campaign, with Slovenia still pursuing a place in the promotion play-offs.

Jaka Bijol named in Slovenia squad

Slovenia host Switzerland in Maribor on Friday 13 November before travelling to Skopje to face North Macedonia on Monday 16 November.

Jaka Bijol has won 77 senior international caps, according to Leeds, and featured in Slovenia’s 2-1 victory over Scotland last month.

The squad also includes Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak and Atalanta defender Relja Obrić, who is a new addition to Cesar’s selection.

Slovenia target promotion play-offs

The Slovenian football association says Cesar’s side are second in Group B1 with seven points from four matches. Switzerland lead with a maximum 12 points, while Scotland have four and North Macedonia have none.

Second place brings a promotion play-off for League A, with the group winners going up directly. Cesar said Slovenia had already met their initial target of staying in League B and were now aiming for second place.

For Jaka Bijol, the call-up offers another chance to add to his international appearances before the Nations League campaign ends. Selection does not guarantee that he will start either match.

Bijol is not the only Leeds defender selected for international duty. Gabriel Gudmundsson has been named in Sweden’s squad for their November fixtures.

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