Latest News
Ricketts vouches for Bailey
November 28, 2023
President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), Michael Ricketts, has thrown his support behind under-fire Leon Bailey, who has been facing increasing pressure for his performances in the national shirt.
The Aston Villa winger has been in top form this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists in 11 English Premier League games.
He has failed to replicate that impressive form with the Reggae Boyz, and criticisms reached its summit during the recent international window after he missed three chances in their Concacaf Nations League first-leg quarterfinal against Canada and another pair in the return game in Canada.
Jamaica lost the first leg at the National Stadium 2-1 but won the second 3-2 at the BMO Field in Ontario to advance to the semifinals on the away-goal rule, with the tie ending 4-4.
Bailey, in a passionate viral video, took jabs at his critics. He stated that the Reggae Boyz have only lost three official matches since he joined in 2019.
Ricketts sympathises with Bailey, noting that every player goes through a rough patch, but said he believes the 26-year-old will eventually come good for his country.
"That's how the sport is. Sometimes you struggle for form. Once you regain your form, all will be well. It is disappointing (the harsh criticism). His heart is in the right place.
"I have told him, 'You will get it right soon, and then all of Jamaica will embrace you again'. So I did say that to him after the game, and I am sure he will get it right soon," Ricketts said.
He revealed that from his conversations with Bailey, he can attest that the player is passionate about the Reggae Boyz and understands what it means to the nation for them to do well.
"It (criticism) is unfortunate. Leon said to me after the game, 'President, whatever I do, I want to do it for my country. I really don't want it to be for myself'. It was touching when he said that to me," Ricketts added.
The JFF boss praised the Reggae Boyz for advancing to the Nations League semifinals.
He also mentioned Shamar Nicholson, who had three goals in the tie, including a brace in the historic 3-2 win in Canada.
"He's (Nicholson) always a tough player mentally and physically, so I want to use this opportunity to congratulate him and encourage young players to be motivated and aspire to represent your country," Ricketts said.
"It was a gutsy performance. The conditions were horrible. It was cold and raining all evening, but we showed some real character and were really tough mentally to beat Canada for the first time in Canada.
"This will certainly add up and give us some catalyst. Congratulations to the technical staff and the players," Ricketts added.
