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JFF suspends selection of Leon Bailey to Reggae Boyz squad

Published:Wednesday | June 26, 2024 | 12:33 PM
Leon Bailey - File photo

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has temporarily suspended the selection of Leon Bailey to the senior men's national team.

In a media release on Wednesday, JFF said the matter has also been referred to the newly appointed Chairman of the Disciplinary and Ethics Committee, David Watt.

It explained that the decision to suspend Bailey was made "in light of recent circumstances surrounding his comments and non-participation in the Copa America 2024 team, despite being selected."

It said "consideration was also given to his stated desire to take a break from national duties, and suspending his selection will guard against any further miscommunication."

The JFF said it values the contributions of all players and respects their individual decisions regarding national team participation.

Bailey was initially announced as part of the Copa America squad, but his inclusion brought with it some controversy, as the player responded to the announcement on social media, calling the release 'misleading'.

Craig Butler, Bailey's manager, responded to the announcement by saying Bailey's position on taking a break to be with family and to take care of his mental health had not changed.

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