Whisper out, Hector returns after three years in the wilderness

Young Sensation Dujuan 'Whisper' Richards was left out of Heimir Hallgrimsson's 23-man squad for the Reggae Boyz two Concacaf Nations League, League A, Group B games away against Grenada and Haiti on October12 and 15 respectively.

In the meantime there was recall for defender, Micheal Hector, after three years in the wilderness.

According to the Icelandic coach, Richards is not playing club football presently, and that his fitness levels have dropped as a result.

"Whisper is not in the squad now. We have to be consistent in what we say and he hasn't played in such a long time. I would have love to have selected him for this camp because he has done well in recent games for us when given a chance. But we have to be consistent in what we say and do. He is a future player for Jamaica and we will support him all we can. But his time will come," Hallgrimsson explained.

With Ethan Pinnock also left out because of an achiless injury, Hector, who currently plays for Charlton Athletic in the English Championship, will fill that void. According to assistant coach, Merron Gordon, the Reggae Boyz needed an experienced player to take Pinnock's place.

"We have an experienced player out. So it is always good to bring in experience for experience. I think it's fair for Michael to get his chance. He has never worked with this new coaching staff and the coaches have always wanted to see him. He is a seasoned campaigner for us and it is a good opportunity for him," he said.

The squad also welcomed one new player in 18-year-old midfielder, Karoy Anderson of Charlton. While five players, Richards, Pinnock, Conia-Boyce Clarke, Amari'i Bell and Kasey Palmer did not return to the squad after the last game.

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com

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Full Squad

Goalkeepers: Andre Blake, Kemar Foster, Jahmali Waite

Defenders: Javain Brown, Tayvon Gray, Di'shon Bernard, Dexter Lembikisa , Damion Lowe, Michael Hector, Greg Leigh, Adrian Marriappa

Midfielders: Bobby Reid, Daniel Johnson, Joel Latibeaudiere, Kevon Lambert, Karoy Anderson, Demario Phillips

Forwards: Michail Antonio, Shamar Nicholson, Leon Bailey, Romario Williams, Renaldo Cephas, Demario Gray