Reggae Boyz striker hungry for more success
Published:Saturday | June 24, 2023 | 12:43 AMOrane Buchanan/Staff Reporter
AHEAD of the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup tournament which kicks off tonight with Jamaica facing hosts United States, Reggae Boyz striker Michail Antonio believes that he’s in the right place mentally to help the team lift their first Gold Cup trophy.
Antonio lifted the Europa Conference Cup trophy earlier this month following West Ham’s 2-1 victory over Italian club Fiorentina and while speaking with the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) media, Antonio stated that he has enjoyed what he has seen in training and is eager to lift another title.
“Obviously, I know that I’ve won (Europa Conference trophy). I’ve got the medal at home but it hasn’t sunk in as yet. I’m here and I’m hoping to win another. It’s been good, the spirit has been high and we seem quite confident in training. I’m feeling positive, I have one cup now and I’m here for a second,” he added.
The 33-year-old Antonio, who made his debut back in 2021, has featured in seven internationals for the national team, while scoring three goals. He shared that he enjoys meeting up with the other players and believes the camaraderie within the team is one he’s pleased to be a part of heading into what is expected to be a challenging tournament.
“One thing I know is that I do enjoy coming here and linking up with the boys. Obviously, we’ve got a good bond now, the atmosphere, camaraderie, everything has been quite good here, so I’m enjoying it and we’re going to keep on going,” he added.
Antonio was also quick to point out that the current Reggae Boyz squad is littered with talented players that are now showcasing their skills at the English Premier League level and other top leagues around the world. He believes with the likes Demarai Gray, Bobby Reid, Leon Bailey and captain Andre Blake in the squad, there’s an abundance of talent to choose from.
“One thing with the Jamaican team is that there’s a lot of potential, there’s a lot of quality and people are starting to turn up. We’ve got a few Premier League players now with Demarai Gray, Bobby Reid, myself, Ethan Pinnock and Leon Bailey. It’s not just the Premier League players. (Andre) Blake has been goalkeeper for the year, for the last few years, in America, so it’s a good squad being built,” Antonio shared.