England-born defender Mason Holgate has been named in the Jamaica National Football Team, the Reggae Boyz, for the first time, ahead of their crucial CONCACAF Nations League matches against Nicaragua on October 10 and Honduras at the National Stadium on October 14.
Holgate, who plays for West Bromwich Albion on loan from English Premier League club Everton, has been pursued by the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) for over four years. The 27-year-old defender, who qualifies to represent Jamaica through his heritage, is in the final stages of obtaining his Jamaican passport and FIFA clearance. Head coach Steve McClaren expressed optimism about Holgate’s availability.
“We’ve been chasing him since before I came in. Through the intervention of the president, we’re finally very, very close to getting his passport. He just needs clearance from FIFA,” said McClaren. “He might not qualify for the first game, but by the second game, he will definitely be available. I decided to bring him in and integrate him quickly.”
Holgate’s addition brings defensive depth to the squad, alongside notable names like Ethan Pinnock, Damion Lowe, and Dexter Lembikisa. Jamaica will hope to strengthen their defense with Holgate’s experience as they push for victories in their Nations League fixtures.
Creative midfielder
Returning to the squad is creative midfielder Tyreek Magee, who currently plies his trade with the Colorado Springs Switchbacks in the USL. Magee, 25, has earned a recall to the national side after impressing McClaren with his ability to change games and his potential as a creative spark in the midfield.
“I’ve always looked for a number 10—a creative player, someone who can win and change games. I asked Assistant Coach Merron Gordon, and he recommended Tyreek,” McClaren explained. “I had a look at him, and I like him. This boy has ability, skill, and can impact games. I’m excited to work with him and see him in training.”
Magee’s inclusion provides much-needed creativity, and he is expected to compete for minutes with the likes of Bobby Reid and Kasey Palmer in the heart of the midfield. The return of the former schoolboy standout, who has 10 caps for the national team, is seen as a positive move to inject more flair and tactical intelligence into Jamaica’s playing style.
However, the squad will be without Leon Bailey, who continues his recovery from injury. The Aston Villa winger, sidelined by a hamstring injury sustained in early September, will miss the October fixtures, with McClaren emphasizing the importance of giving Bailey time to fully heal.
Disappointed
“Leon was disappointed not to make the squad, but he needs time to recover properly. He hasn’t played for Jamaica since last November due to suspension and injury, so we want to ensure he’s at his best before returning,” McClaren noted.
Also absent is striker Shamar Nicholson, who has requested time to regain full fitness after missing a proper preseason with Russian club Spartak Moscow.
The Reggae Boyz will be aiming for maximum points in these upcoming games, hoping to maintain momentum in their Nations League campaign. McClaren has selected a balanced squad, mixing experienced players with emerging talent, as they look to secure qualification for the 2024 CONCACAF Nations League Finals.
Squad: Goalkeepers: Andre Blake, Shaquan Davis, Jahmali Waite. Defenders: Damion Lowe, Ethan Pinnock, Mason Holgate, Di’Shon Bernard, Dexter Lembikisa, Jon Bell, Tayvon Gray, Richard King, Greg Leigh.
Midfielders: Bobby Reid, Kasey Palmer, Joel Latibeaudiere, Tyreek Magee, Karoy Anderson.
Forwards: Michail Antonio, Kaheim Dixon, Demarai Gray, Renaldo Cephas, Norman Campbell, Romario Williams.
