National head coach Stephen Hart is urging the national team players that are based at home, playing in the T&T Pro League to step up their game if they intend to be part of his squad for the 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Hart was speaking as the final fixtures for the Concacaf Semi-final round were confirmed following Tuesday’s round of matches. T&T will meet Guatemala in Guatemala City on November 13 before hosting the United States four days later in Port-of-Spain.
Hart included the likes of Neveal Hackshaw and Marcus Joseph among the new additions for the recent 3-3 draw with Mexico. Those players were not part of the Gold Cup squad while Keron Cummings and Willis Plaza have been holding their positions. Hart said the door has not been closed on any player.
“Those are going back to the Pro League have to set the standard. they are national team players and they must show that and be ready for international football at any time. And those that are going back to their clubs have to find their way on the first squad and get playing because being match fit is going to be essential in this campaign,” Hart said.