US Play-offs hit Reggae Boyz

Posted: 2009-11-04 11:50

Whilst local football fans are still awaiting the arrival of Bafana Bafana coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, Jamaica has announced that they will arrive in the country for the international friendly against South Africa without some of their regular players.

This is due to the fact that some of their US-based players have club commitments.

The Reggae Boyz set to miss the trip to South Africa for the international friendly game set for Vodacom Park Stadium in Bloemfontein include LA Galaxy goalkeeper Donovan Rickets, Chivas defender Shavar Thomas and Colorado Rapids striker Omar Cummings.

The trio’s teams will all be involved in the Major Soccer League Play-offs set for mid-November.

Jamaican national team coach Theodore Whitmore also reveals that England-based player Ricardo Fuller is doubtful for the trip to South Africa as the Jamaican Football Federation has still to receive a response from Stoke regarding his call-up to the squad.

“The US clubs have expressed the desire to have the services of these players for the Play-offs and while we would love to have them representing the national team we have to try to reach a compromise.

“Based on the fact that this is not a World Cup qualifier, I find their request to be more than reasonable,” said Whitmore.

“Their absence will create the opportunity for others to make a name for themselves and if they do well, then the squad will become even more competitive. The fact that the clubs want to retain them speaks positively for our football and may open doors in the MLS for others,” he adds.

The Reggae Boyz are currently in camp and will announce their final squad to play Bafana Bafana on the November 11.

The game between Bafana and Jamaica takes place in Bloemfontein on November 17.

Ernest Fakude

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