Jan Michael, Gonzales praise TT coach Lawrence

A 26-man squad, featuring 13 overseas-based and 13 local- based players, will assemble for the start of a residential camp.

Among the players selected by coach Dennis Lawrence is goalkeeper Jan Michael Williams who returns to the squad for competitive action for the first time since the 3-1 loss to Honduras in November, in which he was forced to leave the field with a head injury.

Williams said: “It’s good to be back in the team after some time away. I have been involved in the training since Dennis has been on board. We started off with a win against Barbados which augured well for the group. And with the final squad including the homebased and foreign -based players I think we have what it takes to get some points in these games.

“The important thing is for the players to open their minds and understand all the ideas and tactics that the coach wants and for us to stay focused and give our best in these two games,” Williams continued.

“The guys coming in including the home based players are already in battle mode. We have spoken and I think we understand what is needed and to leave everything else outside of the football field and focus on getting it right on the pitch.” Defender Curtis Gonzales noted: “It’s been a very professional environment since Dennis and his staff came on board. He was a soldier and I am a soldier, he was a defender and I am a defender so I will grab any knowledge that he passes on, There is a level of brotherhood there between the coach and the players.” The Defence Force player added, “this is a great opportunity for the home-based players to showcase their talent and the worth and once we call come together with the players coming in then I believe we can get the job done.” Tickets are available at all Lotto locations priced at $350 (covered) and $200 (uncovered).