Controversy in Jamaica: Players express their discontent over the possible arrival of Mason Greenwood
Jamaica’s national team players, Isaac Hayden and Amari’i Bell, have expressed their concern about the possibility of Mason Greenwood joining the team before the World Cup. They believe it would be a “farce” and an “unfair” situation. Greenwood, who previously represented England on one occasion, switched his allegiance to Jamaica earlier this year and received his passport in August, allowing him to represent the nation of his grandparents.Although the player was not called up for the qualifying matches against Trinidad and Tobago and Bermuda in September, and keeps his international options open, the president of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), Michael Ricketts, expressed his hope that Greenwood will represent the Reggae Boyz before the World Cup, as he was “excited to obtain his documentation”.
This situation could generate discomfort among his Jamaican teammates, who have worked hard to bring the nation to the doors of the World Cup, with intercontinental qualifiers against New Caledonia and, possibly, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in March.
Hayden, former Arsenal and Newcastle player, now at QPR, expressed his opinion. In addition, he mentioned that the JFF is obsessed with names and hiring more players, but that players who did not commit to the last qualifying round should not join. Greenwood was suspended by Manchester United in January 2022 and faced charges, including attempted rape and assault, before the case was dismissed in February 2023. He is currently rebuilding his career at Olympique de Marseille, where he leads the Ligue 1 goalscoring chart this season with 10 goals in 12 matches. Hayden acknowledged Greenwood’s quality, but emphasized the importance of principles and integrity. He believes that allowing players to join only for the World Cup would be a farce. Bell, Charlton’s defender, added that the late incorporation of Greenwood, or any other player, such as Dwight McNeil from Everton, would be “controversial”.I have played for Jamaica for a year, and there was some resistance towards me at first, but I have played 12 matches and everyone can see my passion and the way I play. I give everything on the field and I wanted to be there to help Jamaica advance to the World Cup.
Isaac Hayden
Bell also indicated that a group conversation would be necessary before any new player joined the team, especially in an event like the World Cup, where a positive environment and good energy are sought. England’s coach, Thomas Tuchel, has made it clear that Greenwood is not in his plans.Many of us have put our blood, sweat, and tears into playing for the nation for years, with many things happening in the background. We have had to deal with all of that. It wouldn’t seem fair for the people who have gone through that whole process and will never have another chance to play in a World Cup. It’s a bit controversial.
Amari’i Bell
