Crowne clarifies Flemmings' status at Phoenix Rising

Sports lawyer Dr Emir Crowne has sought to clarify uncertainty regarding Reggae Boy Junior Flemmings' status with United Soccer League club Phoenix Rising.

Flemmings' club announced on Friday morning that it would be renewing the contracts of eight players, but he was not one of those named.

With his current contract set to expire on November 30, Flemmings is insisting that the club has not released him, as has been reported. He says that he turned down an offer made by Rising, choosing to part ways with the club.

Crowne, however, says even if that is the case, the club is still releasing the player.

"Much of the discord stems from the fact that a 'release' is a term of art in football," Crowne told The Gleaner. "Based on the information in the public domain, it does appear that Mr Flemmings' club is allowing his contract to expire, effectively making him a free agent. He is therefore released from any further obligation to his club upon contract expiry."

Flemmings is now in the Middle East preparing for an international friendly match against hosts Saudi Arabia on Saturday morning.

rachid.parchment@gleanerjm.com