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Gray anxious over ‘Office’ appearance

Published:Sunday | October 13, 2024 | 12:12 AMGregory Bryce - Staff Reporter
Jamaica’s Tayvon Gray takes on Nicaragua’s Oscar Acevedo during their CONCACAF Nations League encounter at the Nicaragua National Football Stadium in Managua on Thursday night.
Courtesy of @tayvon_.4
Jamaica’s Tayvon Gray takes on Nicaragua’s Oscar Acevedo during their CONCACAF Nations League encounter at the Nicaragua National Football Stadium in Managua on Thursday night.

WITH JUST over a year since his debut for Jamaica, Reggae Boyz defender Tayvon Gray is excited to be back in the national set-up – his last appearance before the team’s 2-0 win over Nicaragua on Thursday night coming against the Dominican Republic during a CONCACAF World Cup qualifier in June.

Gray made his debut for the Reggae Boyz in a 1-0 win over Honduras in September last year where he was a second-half substitute for the then Heimir Hallgrimsson-led unit.

Thursday night marked seven appearances for Jamaica, including two late appearances in the CONCACAF Nations League earlier this year where the team secured an historic bronze medal finish over Panama.

Now back in the squad for the October international window, Gray is ready to continue his international career under head coach Stephen McClaren.

“It’s good,” he said.

“It’s good to be back in the squad and obviously, it’s a new coach. I had a few talks with him and it’s been positive. I’m just happy for the opportunity to be here.

“It has been an amazing experience, you know. Playing with the best players from our nation and it has been nothing but love, nothing but joy. It is always good to represent Jamaica.”

Gray came into the squad on terrific form for his club, Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit, New York City Football Club (NYCFC).

He is hopeful he can continue his hot streak into the Reggae Boyz squad and play a major role in the years to come.

The 22-year-old defender has featured 31 times across all competitions this season for the MLS Playoffs-bound NYCFC and has netted once along with seven assists.

His lone goal this season came in a dominant 5-1 victory against the New York Red Bulls where he also provided an assist.

Gray is looking forward to Jamaica’s home game against Honduras tomorrow.

He said playing at the National Stadium in front of the home support will be the boost the Reggae Boyz will need to continue their run in the group stages of the CONCACAF Nations League.

“In New York, it’s going very good, I’m having a good season and I’m just trying to keep it rolling. Hopefully, I can get it rolling for Jamaica too. I’m definitely looking forward to the crowd and we know the passion that they give us and the vibes as well.”