We need to talk! Stewart refuses to represent Boyz until he 'has words' with Whitmore

 Ryon Jones, Gleaner Writer

Reggae Boyz Damion 'Stew Peas' Stewart is still smarting from his dismal form in Jamaica's squad that participated at the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament in the United States last year and does not intend to don the national colours again until he and coach Theodore 'Tappa' Whitmore have dialogue over the lingering issues.

Stewart was sent home from the tournament after being accused of lacking focus and not appearing to want to be part of the team. His behaviour was also deemed to be disruptive and inconsistent with the general objectives of the team.

Stewart, who has not represented the Reggae Boyz since the incident, is of the view that he was unjustly dismissed from the squad and that a lot needs to be said between both parties.

Unfairly dealt with

"If I am to come back and play for Jamaica, the coach and I need to talk before we go forward, as I felt like I was unfairly dealt with and we both can't let it slip like it didn't happen," said Stewart. "We need to sit down face to face or even a telephone call but we just need to have a conversation. There is no way on Earth that they should think a letter can be sent to the club stating that Damion Stewart is being invited and I am going to accept.

I felt like I was disrespected by being sent home and I was wrongfully dealt with, so we need to clear the air," he elaborated.

Stewart, who made his debut for the senior team in 1999 against Ghana, went on to point out that he has no issues with playing for the national team or working with coach Whitmore.

"I have no problems playing for Jamaica or working with Theodore, but I just think that we need to talk," said Stewart. "I felt like sometimes I was being picked on. I don't know for what reason, maybe I am too nice of a person and too laid-back. I am a very respectful person, so I would like to get it back," he added.

Lucrative deal

The 29-year-old, who last week signed a lucrative three-year deal with Football League Championship outfit Bristol City, believes he still has what it takes to feature in Jamaica's 2014 World Cup campaign.

Stewart said: "I am a very patriotic person, I am Jamaican by birth and I will die a Jamaican. Whether I am playing yes or no, I always keep track of the results and cheer on Jamaica. I would love to play for Jamaica again, that's my hope and dream. The next World Cup I am going to be 33, so I still think I am going to have the legs to participate. I think the next World Cup is not out of my reach because at age 30 and up is when the defenders really reach their prime."

Meanwhile, coach Whitmore has no objections to sitting and talking with Stewart and has not ruled him out of the future plans.

"The coaching staff or the Jamaica Football Federation have never ruled Damion Stewart out of their plans," said Whitmore. "So if Damion is doing well at his club and we see the need to call him back, we will call him."

"I have never had any problems with any player. At the time, I did what I thought was best for the team and the country, but the door is open for Damion Stewart to come in and sit and talk," he concluded.