Reggae Boyz fit, ready - Whitmore

Adrian Frater, News Editor

WESTERN BUREAU:

Following an intense fitness session at Jarrett Park yesterday afternoon, national senior football team head coach, Theodore 'Tappa' Whitmore, has declared Jamaica's Reggae Boyz fit and ready for tomorrow night's friendly international against Venezuela at the Montego Bay Sports Complex at Catherine Hall in St James.

"The fitness session went well and we are pleased ... we have no injuries and confidence is high," said Whitmore. "We are awaiting the arrival of overseas players Kavin Bryan and Damion Williams, and once they are here we will intensify our preparation to shape the team into the way we want them to play."

While admitting that he knows very little of the personnel Venezuela will have on show, Whitmore said he was expecting the typical South American style, which is the hallmark of top-flight teams like Brazil and Argentina.

Expect a lot of flair

"Venezuela is the typical South America team so you can expect a lot of flair. If I am recalling correctly, we have played them three times in the recent past, they won one game, we won one game and the other one ended in a draw," said Whitmore. "This game is an integral part of our Gold Cup preparation so we will most definitely be going for a positive result."

While the game is integral to his team's Gold Cup preparation, Whitmore said he will also be using the opportunity to take a keen look at players such as Khari Stephenson and Damion Williams, who have not figured in the national set-up in recent times.

"The door is not closed to any player. Once they have the right attitude and are in the right frame of mind they will be considered," declared Whitmore, when quizzed about the fact that no England-based players are in this current unit. "Our aim is to ultimately assemble the best team for the Gold Cup."

While he would like to create a favourable impression on the fans in his Montego Bay hometown, Whitmore said he feels no pressure and will basically be treating the game as just another match.

Aiming for positive result

"Every time Jamaica play the aim is always to get a positive result," remarked Whitmore. "Playing in Montego Bay does not make a difference ... we are preparing well because we want this game."

With former assistant coach Bradley Stewart no longer a part of the coaching staff, the team is being conditioned by the trio of Whitmore, former Reggae Boyz captain and current goalkeeper coach Warren Barrett, and physical trainer Andre Waugh.

"We are looking around for another person to join the coaching staff. I am sure that as soon as someone is found the Jamaica Football Federation will make an announcement," stated Whitmore. "Right now we are doing okay and the focus is on putting up a good showing on Friday night."

The game, which is expected to attract a full house at the 7,500-seater facility, is slated to start at 8 p.m.