When will Leon Bailey decide to return to the Jamaica men’s national team?
That questions hangs over the Reggae Boyz as they prepare for a summer that will include World Cup qualifiers and the Copa América.
Jamaica would certainly like to see one of its best players end his self-imposed absence, but based on an answer from the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) president, that may not be happening anytime soon.
“To be honest, no [we haven’t spoken],” Michael Ricketts told the Jamaica Observer. “But hopefully somehow we will make this connection and see how we can amicably settle whatever issues Leon may have.”
The issues that Bailey has were laid out in full in an explosive interview the Aston Villa star gave on the Let’s Be Honest podcast last month.
Bailey was dropped from Jamaica’s Nations Leaguie roster, as head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson suspended him over missing curfew during a November camp.
But the 26-year-old followed that suspension up by declaring that he would not be returning when he was available again.
Among the allegations Bailey made were that he had to book his own flights for international duty, players were not provided with even the basic apparel needed for training, and compensation has been nonexistent.
“[The JFF] doesn’t pay us. I can’t remember the last time I received a dollar from the national team. It’s very unprofessional, in ways you can’t even imagine,” he said.
Bailey went on to insinuate that representing Jamaica was something he did more as a favor to his country than anything else.
“Jamaica’s national team is not doing anything for me,” Bailey charged. “Jamaica’s national team is not going to give me exposure. Playing for Jamaica is not going to make Real Madrid call me. I am shining light on the national team by playing overseas and representing as a Jamaican all the time. People know Leon Bailey everywhere in the world.”
Bailey’s agent and father, Craig Butler, added to the Jamaica Observer that he is willing to speak with the JFF, but would need certain assurances in order for Bailey to return.
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