Aston Villa forward Leon Bailey is set to make his highly anticipated return to the Reggae Boyz squad as newly appointed head coach Steve McClaren has included him in the roster for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League matches against Cuba and Honduras. Bailey, 27, has been absent from the senior men’s national team since November 2023 due to a suspension and his own decision to decline a call-up for this summer’s Copa America. The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) had suspended Bailey from selection following his decision.
The decision to reintegrate Bailey into the national team came after a conversation with McClaren, who stated that Bailey expressed his commitment to the team. JFF President Michael Ricketts confirmed that Bailey has provided a written guarantee of his return, signaling his readiness to contribute to the national squad once more.
Bailey’s inclusion marks a significant moment for the Reggae Boyz as they prepare for their Nations League campaign. Eighteen players from the Copa America squad have been retained, with the addition of Amari’i Bell, Norman Campbell, Jon Russell, and Adrian Reid Jr., enhancing the team’s strength and depth.
The Reggae Boyz are set to arrive on the island next week, gearing up for their clash against Cuba at the National Stadium on Friday. This match will be a key fixture in their Nations League journey, and Bailey’s return is expected to boost the team’s performance.
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Full Squad for the Nations League:
Goalkeepers:
- Andre Blake
- Jahmali Waite
- Conniah Boyce-Clarke
Defenders:
- Damion Lowe
- Di’Shon Bernard
- Ethan Pinnock
- Amari’i Bell
- Greg Leigh
- Richard King
- Joel Latibeaudiere
Midfielders:
- Kasey Palmer
- Karoy Anderson
- Bobby Reid
- Jon Russell
- Adrian Reid Jr.
Forwards:
- Leon Bailey
- Michail Antonio
- Shamar Nicholson
- Demarai Gray
- Kaheim Dixon
- Norman Campbell
The inclusion of star players such as Michail Antonio, Demarai Gray, and the returning Bailey promises an exciting display of talent and skill as Jamaica aims to make a strong showing in the Nations League. Coach Steve McClaren’s tenure begins with much anticipation, and the upcoming fixtures will be crucial in setting the tone for his leadership and the team’s success.
