As this country’s Senior National Team members approached the final days of their live-in training camp at home, they received a surprised but welcomed visit from teammate Keron Cummings at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Sunday evening.
“I just feel good being able to come back and out and watch the boys before they head off to Panama. Being out of the hospital is a big relief and I’m feeling okay at the moment. I feel like I could start therapy tomorrow but I know I can’t rush the process,” Cummings told TTFA Media.
“But all in all, I just wanted to wish the boys well. I know they have it in them to get the right result against Haiti and take us into the Copa America.”
Cummings added: “I would just want to say to these guys out here that there are many things you can do to have enjoyment in life, especially for young persons and picking up a gun or getting involved in crime is not the way. I do not hate the person who did this to me but I would wish people could see a more positive aspect in life. I’d like to thank everyone who showed me that support over the past few days.”
Orlando City midfielder Kevin Molino also joined the team for training last week as he continues his recovery process following ACL surgery in May. Molino is targeting a return to play in March.
The T&T team will have one session at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium on Tuesday before departing for Panama City at 6am on Wednesday ahead of Friday’s Copa America Centenario qualifier versus Haiti at the Estadio Rommel Fernandez.
With English-based defender Justin Hoyte ruled out with a hamstring injury, Hart has opted to travel with a 22-man squad and will not name a replacement.
The team has trained rigorously over the past week and according to Central FC midfielder Ataulla Guerra, will be aiming to overcome its next hurdle.
“The training camp has been quite intensive but very good for us. For me personally, I feel really good to be back after missing out the last couple games. We have a big task ahead but it is very important that we stay focused and treat this game with all the respect it deserves,” Guerra said.
“And everyone is very eager to do well. We know what is at stake and the opportunity will be a great one. Day by day we are just putting in the work which I think will see us produce the kind of football on the pitch that will bring us the result we are looking for ,” Guerra added.