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October 10, 2010 was the last time Jamaica fielded a UK based player and that was Ricardo Fuller. That is now almost 11 months since we have seen a UK based player in the Black Green and Gold. It is certainly very concerning.
We have to ask Tappa and Company " Why Avoid UK Based Players ? UK based players play a huge role in the development of football at the international level. They bring years of experience, they bring tactical discipline and their technical ability wins the Jamaicans fans hearts all the time.
At this point in time the fans are growing restless. We are about 10 months away from the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers and we are yet to experiment with the UK based players.
As I have said before we are just a few pieces away from completing the puzzell and stand a very very strong chance of getting on that plane to Brazil. Technically all we need is a solid centre back, a central midfielder, winger and an additional striker. The general core of the team is a good one and with these additions, Jamaica WILL reap the rewards in the near future.
Darren Pratley is a 25 year old central midfielder who plays for Bolton Wanderers in the English Premier League. He just moved from Swansea City who he helped to promote to the Premier League. His tactical vision, his sound mind and his strong presence made a difference at Swansea and that is what Jamaica needs at the middle of the park right now. When John Barnes was manager he called him up but days before the game, Pratley picked up an injury. Now its time for Pratley to come back.
Chris Humphrey is a 23 year old winger who plays for Motherwell F.C. in the Scottish Premier League. Chris is said to be the 17th fastest winger in the UK. Chris Humphrey played an integral role in Motherwell's Europa League season last season. He was called up to the Jamaica team prior to the Gold Cup this Year but his mother got a stroke days before the tournament. Chris will terrorize the opposisiton with his speed, cleverness and dead ball skills.
Zavon Hines is a 22 year old striker who plays for Burnley F.C. in the Championship. Zavon Hines was called up by John Barnes in 2009 for a friendly vs Nigeria but he did not feature. He recently moved from West Ham. Former West Ham and England International Dean Aston said Zavon is one to watch for the future as he is a very lethal striker in front of goal.
These pieces will fit in nicely into the pool of players and they will play an integral role in getting to Brazil. Now is the time to step up.
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BY Simon Preston
