GFF shortlists provisional 26-member squad for Belize clash

Following several days of trials at the National Training Centre, Providence, under the watchful of assistant coach, Charles `Lily’ Pollard, the Guyana Football Federation [GFF], has short-listed a local senior provisional squad of 26 members.

The squad, which initially featured 35 players, is preparing for the CONCACAF Nations League clash against Belize on March 23rd at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora.

The reduced squad reads Goalkeepers Sese Norville, Lloyd Matthews, Ryan Hunte, Defenders Sherwin Skeete, Rondel Hutson, Kevin Dundas, Kevin Layne, Quincy Adams, Solomon Austin, William Europe, Deshawn Joseph, Midfielders Colin Nelson, Daniel Wilson, Anthony Benfield, Clive Nobrega, Vurlon Mills, Leo-orin Lovell and Forwards Jamal Perreira, Pernel Schultz, Jamal Harvey, Trayon Bobb, Kelsey Benjamin, Gregory Richardson, Dellon Lanferman, Delroy Fraser and Sherwyn Caesar. The squad is to commence an eight week training programme shortly.

According to a release from the GFF, Pollard said that part of the criteria for selection was based on the players’ ability to perform at a high level under instruction.

“In the next eight weeks, it will give everyone a level playing field and an equal chance to make the final 23. Fitness, developing their football IQ, awareness and tactical soundness will be the focus.” Pollard said he was excited about the work ahead. “I’m excited to work with the team; it’s a very good group of guys. I will share all the knowledge that I’ve got. They are very excited to be part of the programme so I’m looking forward to a good eight-week preparation and, at the end of the preparation, the best guys will be selected.”

Head-Coach Michael Johnson is set to arrive on local shores tomorrow for a nine-day visit in preparation for the clash.

Guyana currently sit in eighth place on six points. A win against the Central American side would effectively secure Guyana’s berth to their maiden Gold Cup.