Santos a stepping stone –‘Messi’Marsh
Former Cavalier forward Chevone ‘Messi’ Marsh says his move to Costa Rican club Santos de Guapiles takes him a step closer to his goal of returning Europe and he intends to continue working to improve and get better.
Marsh, 28, left Jamaica after more than 10 years at Cavalier, which included two loan spells in Europe.
He signed for El Salvadorean club Chalatenango last year, before moving to Costa Rican side A.D.R. Jicaral later that year.
Although his previous club was keen on keeping him, he says the opportunity came to move forward and he took it.
“Santos de Guapiles, a Guadeloupean club, and Sporting FC ( Costa Rica) were showing interest but with the blessing of the Almighty, I was able to make this move,” he said.
“The club didn’t want me to go, but when you think you have ran your race and there is another plan that you think can propel you to the next level, you take it.”
Marsh says that fellow national player, Javon East, who plays for Santos, had a big influence on his decision.
“Javon East, a teammate from high school (Calabar), we had a conversation before,” he said. “The plan was really interesting, and when I talked to the management it was a good plan. I was in the plan.
“And I saw there were more opportunities here where I can grow and get to the next level, as there is a higher level of football outside Central America and I want to get back to Europe or even the US. So I have to remain focused.” he said.
Santos were third in the Costa Rica Apertura and eighth in the Clausura and Marsh said his desire to get going is boiling over.
He says that as a foreigner, taking an international slot, he always has to be at his best, while trying to get better every day.
With five international caps for the Reggae Boyz, Marsh says he still has something to contribute to the national team.
“I have been away from the national team and I want to get back,” he said. “I still have more to offer to my country but for now I will concentrate on playing for my club.
“Being around better players can propel me to the next level and once I am doing well and scoring goals, it will reach the right people. I will continue to put in the hard work and do what is necessary to be here and to be at my best.”