Bernard a rock in Jamaica’s defence

Jamaica central defender Di’Shon Bernard has been making a name for himself with the Reggae Boyz in the Concacaf Gold Cup. The 22-year-old, who was recently released by English Premier League (EPL) club Manchester United, has definitely auditioned himself well over the three matches he has played with the Reggae Boyz and will no doubt be on the radar of a few clubs this summer.

Jamaica coach Heimir Hallgrimsson said although the young player still has room for improvement, he has a lot of qualities that are going to make him an outstanding central defender in the future.

“Bernard is a young centre back who I think will get more recognition in the upcoming years. This (Gold Cup) is helping him a lot in that area. You can see his physical strength is good. His speed is good and aerially he is very strong. He still has some things to learn but he will grow for sure when he starts playing regularly. So I give him a lot of credit,” Hallgrimsson said.

On Sunday the young player, who has been a revelation for the Reggae Boyz in defence at the Gold Cup, got his first international goal and Hallgrimsson said he was surprised by the defender’s composure and skill that gave Jamaica their third goal in a 5-0 win over St Kitts and Nevis in their final Group A match.

“I haven’t seen those attacking skills he showed today (Sunday) in the opponent’s half. I asked him if he had ever done that before and he was ‘yes coach’,” the Icelandic coach said.

“But he is new in the squad like Damarai (Gray), like (Joel) Latibeaudiere who seem to gel in really quickly and know their roles in the team. So I am really happy with the player. He has done really well since he came in.”

Bernard, who was one of seven players released from his contract with Manchester United in June, will be hoping potential suitors are noticing his performances after putting in a solid display in the 1-1 draw with the USA and starring in the team’s 4-1 win over Trinidad and Tobago and 5-0 win over St Kitts and Nevis.

Being out of contract can be difficult for footballers but international football is a great way of increasing one’s stocks and putting themselves in the shop window. And so far Bernard has been ticking all the right boxes. Playing at the tournament has definitely helped to increase Bernard’s chances of finding a new club and if he continues to perform at the same level, he should be able to secure a good move this summer.

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com