Latapy eager to prove himself

Latapy arrived in Trinidad last evening and, along with FIFA vice-president Jack Warner and Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (TTFF) president Oliver Camps, held a press briefing at the VIP Lounge of the Piarco International Airport.

Also returning on the delayed flight from London were goalkeepers Kelvin Jack and Shaka Hislop; defenders Brent Sancho, Marvin Andrews and Ian Cox; midfielders Carlos Edwards and Chris Birchall; and striker Stern John.

Coach Leo Beenhakker wasted no time in ensuring that the players get into the thick of things, as they were present in a training session at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo last night, as they prepare for the CONCACAF World Cup Final Round qualifier against Guatemala on Saturday.

The 37-year-old Latapy last played for Trinidad and Tobago in a 5-0 victory against Bermuda on June 23 2001, mere days before his infamous retirement (alongside current captain Dwight Yorke) after a fall-out with then coach Rene Simoes.

"In the past four years I haven’t represented the country but Trinidad has always been dear to my heart," said Latapy, who is currently a player/coach at Scottish Premier League club Falkirk.

Commenting on his retirement, he said: "It was for personal reasons, which has been documented, but I’ve always followed closely to the team and I must say that it’s good to be back and I appreciate, over the last four years, the consideration that the country and the (TTFF) had, in always inviting me to represent my country."

"It’s good to be back home and hopefully, I can contribute in a positive way towards the World Cup in Germany," he added.

When asked about the reasons behind his international comeback, Latapy responded: "I honestly believe that there is a good opportunity for us to get there. I’ve spoken to a lot of players and they think that we’re good enough to get past the other teams (Guatemala, Costa Rica and Panama)."

Latapy was adamant that he does not expect the TT football fanatics to expect any miracles bearing in mind his age and the fact that he has been out of the international scene for four years.

But he made it clear, "the expectations of the fans would be high and I’ll definitely relish the challenge."

Concerning an earlier report that he will only be playing against Guatemala and Costa Rica (on September 7), Latapy stated: "Because I’m doing coaching as well, I have a responsibility to the football club.

"The reality is if we don’t get at least four points from these two games, then it makes the whole qualifying situation a bit difficult," he continued.

Warner later revealed that a number of Guatemalan print and electronic media personnel are in Trinidad for the match, as well as a contingent of 300 supporters.

So he noted, "we want to ensure that this country supports the team in a way that has never been done before.

"And, as such, in honour of Russell’s return to the country and as an Independence gift to the nation, whatever the attendance, we’ve agreed to carry the match live (on TV)," he added.

"I do not believe that the guy in Mayaro, or Tobago, should be denied the opportunity to see this team on Saturday," he ended.