Spann, McFarlane to face Vincy Heat

Fresh from an impressive trial in Japan, midfielder Silvio Spann has forced his way back into the Trinidad and Tobago 18-man squad for next Wednesday’s 2006 World Cup qualifier against St Vincent and the Grenadines at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo. The dreadlocks-style versatile has been tipped to join Yokahama FC but made his way back home in order to train under coach Bertille St Clair. Also picked is Errol McFarlane who scored a double in a win over St Vincent in the first leg. Others in the line-up are Derek King, Densil Theoabld, skipper Angus Eve, goalkeeper Duarance Williams and North East Stars hero Jerren Nixon, all locally-based pros. St Clair conducted an intense three-hour training session yesterday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium which also included dreadlocks American-based player Leslie “Tiger” Fitzpatrick.

“We had an excellent session and I am particularly pleased with the efforts of the local guys who have shown all indication that that they will work hard in an attempt to force their way in the final team,” he said. “We continue to stress that the door remains closed on no player but when it comes down to picking the final team, obviously the players we think who are best suited for the match will be the ones selected,” St Clair said. Wake Forest University striker Scott Sealy has been drafted into the team at the expense of New York New/Jersey Metrostars striker Cornell Glenn who is still struggling with a hamstring injury. Coventry City striker Stern John also remains doubtful. Midfielder Brent Rahim and Avery John both trained yesterday and the latter was particularly impressive having come off a solid season with New England Revolution in the American MLS.

The overseas pros, expected to start arriving tomorrow, include Clayton Ince (Crewe Alexandra), Kenwyne Jones (Southampton),  Ian Cox (Gillingham), Brent Sancho (Dundee), Marvin Andrews (Glasgow Rangers), Dennis Lawrence (Wrexham) and Anthony Rougier (Nanjing Yo) and Wrexham striker Hector Sam. Meantime, Glasgow Rangers defender Alex McLeish said in Scotland on Thursday that he was hoping Andrrews would not have been called for Wednesday’s match. Andrews played brilliantly in a 2-1 Cup win over Celtic but will return in time for today’s League clash against the same rivals. “Somebody told me Shaka Hislop has been excused so I would like to try to do something now about Marvin if that’s the case,” said McLeish. “I’m told it is a match that they will win easily. McLeish also pointed the finger at SPL officials for the system creating a gruelling schedule.

“The fixture list is horrendous. It has come out of the computer that we have to play Celtic in the week of an international at half-past 12. It is the same for Celtic as they have internationals away but it is absolutely crazy.” The TTFF and the TT team management maintains that the strongest possible team would be selected for the clash against the Vincentians as the Soca Warriors would be taking nothing for granted with a place in the final round at stake. Ince will be making a return to the team having rounded back into form again and as such Hislop has not been recalled to avoid either one being left on the bench. Andrews however, will be a sure starter on Wednesday.