Looking at football
published: Saturday | May 22, 2004

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I WISH to comment on the state of Jamaica's football and the progress they are making. Firstly, the team has not maintained or increased its level of play since Rene Simoes left, and the standard of play in the CONCACAF region has grown. This means the team has to double the effort put out in the '98 campaign. New and inexperienced players have joined the squad which also means the team should have started back from square one. The team must go through a development process again, not only for new players but for the entire team's benefit.

The team has played two practice matches this year and they need to play many more matches going into the qualifiers. I am aware of FIFA's dates and the problem of having overseas players on a regular basis. If the JFF gets sponsorship, a regular local selection could go on a six-match tour of South America or Europe. I learnt there is a tour of England planned. The coaching staff must also try to have the squad tour the island for local encounters. These are the suggestions I wish to make at this time.

I am, etc.,

L. Clarke