4 domestic based players named in Reggae Boyz Copa America squad

Head coach of the Reggae Boyz Heimir Hallgrimsson says he was strategic in selecting the players as they prepare for the Copa America set to start on June 20.

19 year old Arnett Gardens striker Kaheim Dixon, Cavalier defender Richard King, Portmore United midfielder Alex Marshall and Mount Pleasant FC goalkeeper Shaquan Davis are the domestic-based players included in coach Heimir Hallgrimsson's Reggae Boyz squad.

Hallgrimsson says their inclusion is a testament to the progression of the Wray and Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL). The coach reasoned that young players were chosen with the future in mind.

Ethan Pinnock also makes a return to the squad since last playing against Canada in the Nations League in November 2023 as well as fellow defender Wes Harding who last played against Panama in September 2021 in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Joel Latibeaudiere who missed the two recent World Cup qualifiers, also makes a return to the squad.

The squad is completed by: goal keepers Jahmali Waite and Conniah Boyce Clarke, defenders Dexter Lembikisa, Di'Shon Bernard, Greg Leigh, Damion Lowe, Michael Hector and Jon Bell, midfielders Kasey Palmer, Kevon Lambert, Bobby Reid and Karoy Anderson as well as forwards Shamar Nicholson, Renaldo Cephas, Michail Antonio and Demarai Gray.

Two players who are on the mend, regular skipper Andre Blake who recently underwent surgery for a knee injury, returns after missing the two recent World Cup qualifiers, while defender Amari'i Bell, has been added to a three man reserve list.

The Reggae Boyz squad is due to begin camp in Houston on June 16. They've been drawn in Group 'B' alongside fellow CONCACAF  team Mexico, Ecuador and Venezuela. The Copa tournament begins on June 20 with Jamaica set to face Mexico on June 22 in their first encounter.