Simoes has no problem with foreign-based players

Kwesi Mugisa, Staff Reporter

Rene Simoes, technical director of the Jamaica Football Federation (J.F.F.), has sought to clarify any misconceptions, as it relates to the exclusion of a large number of foreign-based players from the national set-up.

"I think there is a misunderstanding. I do not have a problem with overseas-based players, it is what we work for here, that players will be able to secure contract and eventually play abroad," Simoes told The Gleaner.

"However, there is great difficulty with getting players already abroad to learn our system when they are here for only three or for days.

"There is not enough time now. When the players we have now secure contracts abroad, it will be easier. All they have to do is remember the system," he added.

Crucial game

The local contingent of Jamaica's Reggae Boyz return to camp today, as they continue preparing for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Mexico,on September 6th.

The match will be the first home game for the national team, which earned a creditable result to open the campaign, following a 1-1 draw with Canada at the BMO field in Canada last Wednesday.

The squad which goes into training consists of several Under 21 players, a decision similar to one taken by Simoes ahead of the Canada match. The youth players invited are Davion Thorpe (Reno), Andre Darby (Naggo Head), Levaughn Williams (Sporting Central), Keithy Simpson (Cavalier), Andre Campbell (Portmore), Andre Clennon (Waterhouse), Alanzo Adlam (Cavalier) and Romario Campbell of Harbour View.

Goalkeeper Dwayne Kerr, who last played for Jamaica against Trinidad and Tobago in March, has been recalled while Dwayne Holmes of St Georges has earned his first national call-up.

Promising youngsters

"The youngsters called up for the Canada game did so well that I have no doubts that a number of them will be the ones to mature and carry on the programme," Simoes said.

However, as it relates to a number of overseas-based players not invited to join the squad for the Canada qualifier, the technical director explained that the situation may not be a permanent one.

"As I have stressed, the door is not closed for any player, once they work on some of the things that we require of them," Simoes said. "So there may be overseas-based players that were not invited for the Mexico friendly that could be invited for the Canada game.

"Always you have to keep pressure within the national team. If you improve you will have a chance, if you do not do well or what is required you will be kicked out," he added.