Football Today
·6 October 2023
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·6 October 2023
Crystal Palace defender Tyrick Mitchell is seriously considering the prospect of representing Jamaica on the international stage following repeated omissions from the England squad, per the Daily Mail.
Jamaica’s persistent efforts to convince Mitchell to switch his international allegiance have seemingly made headway. The 24-year-old defender is pondering the opportunity.
England national team manager Gareth Southgate raised eyebrows when he decided not to include a natural left-back in the squad for the upcoming matches against Australia and Italy.
This surprising decision was prompted by an injury crisis in the left-back position, leaving the Three Lions boss with a dilemma.
The left-back role is likely to be filled by Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier, who primarily operates as a right-back.
Also, Chelsea defender Levi Colwill has been utilised as a left-back by his club this season. Southgate confirmed that Colwill is indeed under consideration for the left-back spot.
In the previous squad announced in September, Southgate opted for Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell for the left-back role.
However, Chilwell has now sustained a hamstring injury, joining Luke Shaw on the list of unavailable players. Brentford’s Rico Henry is also sidelined due to an ACL injury.
Despite all these injuries at left-back, Southgate did not find space for Mitchell in the squad.
Mitchell earned a place in Southgate’s squad in March 2022, featuring in friendly matches against Switzerland and Ivory Coast.
However, he has not received another call-up since then. Mitchell remains eligible to switch allegiances, as his England appearances were in friendly fixtures.
Jamaica has had recent success in convincing England-eligible players to represent their national team, with notable names such as Ethan Pinnock, Michail Antonio, and Demarai Gray making the switch.
The Reggae Boyz hope to add another talented player to their ranks, further strengthening their squad. The decision now lies in Mitchell’s hands as he evaluates his options on the international stage.