Antigua banking on overseas players for Caribbean Cup

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – In-form striker Keiran Murtagh leads a plethora of overseas-based players included in Antigua and Barbuda 23-man squad for the CFU Caribbean Cup Finals which kick off in Jamaica tomorrow.

The 26-year-old, who plays for Woking in England’s League Conference, scored three goals in the qualifiers to lead the Benna Boys’ frontline.

He is joined by Nottingham Forest striker Dexter Blackstock who campaigns in England’s League Championship, the second tier of English football. He has, however, played just once this term because of injury.

They will meet up with fellow England-based player Calaum Jahraldo-Martin who plays for Premiership side Hull City and Josh Parker, who represents Slovenian side Domzale. The squad will be led by Quinton Griffith who plays for Charleston Battery in the United Soccer League.

Five of the overseas contingent – Christopher Cordara-Soanes, Alvin Jarvis and Aaron Tumwa, midfielder Myles Weston and striker Jordon Smith – have been called up for the first time.

Goalkeeper Brentton Muhammad, defenders Zaine Francis-Angol and Connor Peters, Jorrin John and Nathaniel Jarvis are the other overseas-based players.

Experienced striker Peter Byers, who has scored twice in the competition, has also earned his spot in the side.