Carlos Edwards joins Ma Pau Stars

The 37-year-old joined Ma Pau Stars as a free agent, after a two-year spell with English club Millwall FC (who are now in the English League One).

And Edwards, who played 86 internationals for Trinidad and Tobago from 1999-2013, is willing to pass on his knowledge of the game to the new breed of local footballers at Ma Pau Stars which also boasts former senior national players Jason Scotland and Hayden Tinto as well as ex- TT Under-20 player Jerrel Britto.

During a recent interview, Edwards noted, “it’s been a while since I left the Pro League. I think it’s about time, coming home to give back something that I’ve tasted before, trying to build and putting the Pro League back on the map, to help the younger guys try to emulate what I’ve experienced throughout my career.

“That’s one of the main reasons why I’m actually back home here,” he added.

Despite his age, Edwards is not quite ready to hang up his boots.

“I feel fit but, obviously, in football terms and football politics, age is a main factor, (so) maybe in a couple of years,” he said, concerning his future on the field of play.

“In the same time, I’ll be finishing my coaching badges, trying the help the guys like (Kevin Jeffrey) and Ross (Russell). In saying that, I will like to go into coaching, just not at this present time.” Russell will remain as the team’s coach, having taken over midway into the 2015-2016 season, while Kevin Jeffrey will serve as manager, having left Central FC during the off-season.

Commenting on Ma Pau’s involvement with the team, Edwards said, “Ma Pau came on board as a sponsor. It (is) a privilege for them to come on board to keep the team in the Pro League this season. For that, we do thank them. Hopefully we can have a successful (campaign).” Why did he choose to play with Ma Pau Stars? “You look at the staff, Kevin Jeffrey and Ross Russell,” he replied.

“They know what they’re all about. I’ve played with Ross before so you’ll see my loyalty will more generate there.” He added, “I know Ross, how he goes about business, and I’m an experienced player who can help the younger guys. It was a no-brainer for me, and for him, to bring me on board to help.” About his contract with Ma Pau Stars, Edwards noted, “just until the end of the season.

“Depending on how I perform, and how the legs feel, we will negotiate something during that time.” Edwards was a member of Defence Force from August 1999 to June 2000 before leaving for a 16-year stint in Great Britain, including Wrexham, Luton Town, Sunderland, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Ipswich Town and Millwall.