Bermuda’s squad for the Concacaf Gold Cup preliminary matches against Honduras has been announced, missing key defenders due to injury. Coach Michael Findlay emphasized the challenges in squad selection while highlighting opportunities for new players. The team aims for qualification to the Gold Cup, reflecting significant improvement in Bermuda’s football.
Bermuda has officially announced its squad for the upcoming Concacaf Gold Cup preliminary matches against Honduras scheduled for March 21 and 25. Notably, the team will be missing key defenders Danté Leverock, Harry Twite, and Luke Robinson due to injuries. However, captain Dale Eve will return to lead the squad.
Forward Nahki Wells will not participate as he focuses on his club Bristol City, alongside teammates Kole Hall, Justin Donawa, and Andrew Kempe, who are also unavailable. Coach Michael Findlay acknowledged the challenges in selecting the squad, citing injuries and club commitments as significant factors.
Findlay stated, “Our selections for the March camp have brought about some challenges…” he expressed the disappointment felt by those unable to join, especially Leverock, Twite, and Robinson, who have been essential for Bermuda’s performance since his appointment in August 2023.
Despite these drawbacks, Findlay remains optimistic about the future, mentioning that Leverock and Twite should be fit for the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying matches in June. He highlighted that the absence of players like Wells and others present an opportunity for growth within the squad.
As part of squad adjustments, Findlay included fresh talents such as former under-20 player Max Mobray and welcomed back Lejaun Simmons after a lengthy injury. Additionally, the selection features Eusebio Blankendal, who impressed during training camps, demonstrating the necessity of exploring new talents both domestically and abroad.
The coach also remarked on Bermuda’s progression, emphasizing that qualifying for the 2025 Gold Cup play-off indicates significant improvement. He noted, “Our qualification to the 2025 Gold Cup play-off matches in March is obviously something we should celebrate…” Findlay emphasized the excitement among players to compete against top-tier teams.
The announced squad consists of:
Goalkeepers: Dale Eve, Detre Bell, Milai Perott.
Defenders: J’Nai Butterfield-Steede, Julian Carpenter, Kieron Richardson, Lejaun Simmons, Max Mobray, Reese Jones Jr.
Midfielders: Aunde Todd, Eusebio Blankendal, Keziah Martin, Ne-jai Tucker, Roger Lee, Willie Clemons.
Forwards: David Jones Jr, Djair Parfitt, Enrique Russell, Kane Crichlow, Knory Scott, Reggie Lambe, Sachiel Ming, Zeiko Lewis.
Bermuda’s squad for the upcoming matches reflects a challenge due to injuries and player unavailability; however, it also presents an opportunity for emerging talents. The return of captain Dale Eve is a positive, and Coach Findlay’s optimism about squad development and upcoming qualifications aligns with expectations of growth for Bermudian football.
Original Source: www.royalgazette.com
