Hoilett to lace up for Team Canada
The Canadian men’s national team’s attack became instantly more potent Wednesday when Queens Park Rangers midfielder Junior Hoilett, a Brampton native, finally pledged his international career to the Canucks.
“I can’t wait to play, put on the Canada jersey for the first time, and help the team achieve better things and progress as a nation,” the 25-year-old said early Wednesday afternoon after announcing his decision through the Canadian Soccer Association.
Hoilett, who played in the English Premier League before the Rangers were relegated to the Championship last season, has long been on the CSA’s radar. But he was also eligible to represent Jamaica through his parents and perhaps even England, where he has lived since the age of 13 after moving overseas to join the Blackburn Rovers’ youth side.
Once the midfielder picked a country, there was no changing sides.
On Wednesday, Hoilett said men’s national team head coach Benito Floro played a part in him ultimately choosing Canada.
“We sat down prior to the decision and he was just giving me confidence, telling me to just be out there, be happy, play your game.”
Hoilett was only the sixth Canadian to score a goal in the Premier League, according to soccer author and historian Colin Jose, a highlight-reel strike from distance that helped his Rovers seal a 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion in January 2011.
He joined the Rangers in July 2012, signing a four-year contract. The Bramptonian has only played for the London-based club twice this season but coach Floro praised Hoilett’s importance within the squad, saying his attacking prowess is something the Canadian side currently lacks.
“He runs well with the ball and likes to shoot on goal. He comes in at the right time for both the team and himself.”
Hoilett’s first appearance in red and white could come in an international friendly against Ghana on Oct. 13 at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C.
That match will act as preparation for the squad ahead of the next round of World Cup qualifiers, which kicks off Nov. 13 at BC Place in Vancouver.
On his first day on the job, the midfielder was imploring Canadian fans to show up for the coming matches.
“We have important games coming up, show your support and be the 12th man that help us move forward, win games.” With files from Dave Feschuk