Rougier happy with TT call-up

Anthony Rougier has been given another opportunity to prove he still has what it takes to play at the international level.

Rougier has been included in a ten-man local squad selected by coach Leo Beenhakker to attend a five-day camp in Miami ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s friendly international against Iceland on February 28 in London, England.

The utility player played with United Petrotrin in the T&T Pro League last season and led the Oilmen to the Lucozade Sport Big Six title.

Rougier started his professional career in Scotland with Raith Rovers and played with a number of clubs all over Europe, including Hibernian, Port Vale, Reading FC. He also had a stint in China and more recently played for the Rochester Rhinos in the MLS.

He made his senior international debut in 1994, and last played for Trinidad and Tobago on the Journey to Germany in a World Cup qualifier against the USA under coach Bertille St Clair back in February 2005.

When contacted about being selected to go on the five-day camp in Miami, Rougier told ttproleague.com: "It’s a situation I am looking forward to. I have been in touch with a couple senior players about coming back into the squad and they have given me some positive vibes."

Rougier said it has always been an honour for him to represent Trinidad and Tobago and he is looking forward to the latest opportunity.

"And if it is I am among the chosen to go to Germany for the World Cup then that will be great, because it’s a stage all footballers want to be on and I would relish the opportunity," said Rougier.

When asked if he believes he still has a contribution to make at the age of 34, he answered in the affirmative.

"Yes I believe I still have a contribution to make. I am 34 years old, but anyone who knows me, know that I take good care of myself — age is just a number and I think my experience over the years can still serve in good stead," he said.

He also confirmed that the desire is still very much there. "Trinidad and Tobago football is in my blood, I have been representing my country since the age of 16 and that’s the reason why I have come back, not only to contribute to local football, but help develop the young minds who have the ability to play the game."

The former national captain, is also looking forward to playing under coach Beenhakker.

"I have the utmost respect for the man and from what I have heard from some of the players, I understand he is in total control of the team and makes all the football decisions and that’s a good thing."

Looking ahead to the 2006 T&T Pro League season, Rougier, who played the latter part of last season with United Petrotrin, made no commitment saying, he has a few options available to him.

He said he enjoyed playing at Petrotrin over the last few months but is just waiting to see what the future holds.