T&T's trio of Cordell Cato, Joevin Jones and Kevan George are among four players in the American MLS, called up to contest the Copa America Centenario playoffs tomorrow in Panama City.
Panama have called up San Jose Earthquake's Anabel Godoy while T&T's Yohance Marshall, Daneil Cyrus and Carlyle Mitchell have all played for MLS teams in the past. Panama's Blas Perez and Jamie Penedo have also played in the MLS.
According to Jones, the MLS is producing good all-round players who continue to play on the international stage.
"It's good for the league which is growing each season. For players like myself and Cordell (Cato), it's quite exciting to be playing on the international stage with our national teams and having the chance to get into a tournament like the Copa America where we could compete against some of the best teams and best players in the world today.
"I think the league provides a good platform for players to get a break and improve their game and have the opportunity to move onto bigger things."
Looking back at his season for Chicago Fire, Jones added: "We had a decent season but the ambition is to win. We've got a decent bunch of players and I think we'll be looking to improve next season. The team is always looking to improve and the challenge of helping them finish better next season is one I think all the players are looking forward to."
Plaza has faith in teammates
Central FC forward Willis Plaza is not certain whether he will follow Friday's match between Trinidad and Tobago and Haiti online on one of the available live streams. But one thing's for sure, he will be saying some extra prayers for his teammates before kick off.
Plaza was ruled out of the contest with a dislocated shoulder while on duty with his club and is expected to be sidelined for at least another month. The former Jabloteh player was the lone scorer early in the first half the last time the two countries met in a closed-door encounter in Fort Lauderdale prior to the Concacaf Gold Cup.
"I am sad that I will not be able to play but once the coach and the doctor spoke to me I knew I would have to miss the game," Plaza said.
"I feel this game will be harder but the boys have the qualities to pull off the win. I know they will be positive. The chance to play in the Copa America is like a once in a lifetime opportunity," Plaza said.
Winchester looks to grab opportunity
Shahdon Winchester has been in solid form for DirecTV W Connection this season and now he's looking to make a strong impression and hopefully a lasting one on the national team.
The former Naparima College forward has been in and around the national team for the past five years after first making his debut under Russell Latapy in 2010. But he is yet to cement his spot after being part of the 2014 Caribbean Cup squad which finished runners up to Jamaica.
"It's been a good training camp. We've been working hard. Everyone knows what is at stake so we are pushing each other," Winchester said.
The former Finnish-based professional added: "The competition for places on the team has been tough and that's good because it means everyone has to be on top of their game. The team has been doing quite well and we want to keep the momentum going into the World Cup qualifiers and hopefully the Copa America as well.
"My aim is to work hard and do the right things to break into the team. I know everyone wants to do what is best for the team. There is a strong belief among the players and for me it's an honour to be part of this squad," Winchester added.
Jomal sees big chance
For the second time in just about a year, Jomal Williams has earned selection on the national team by head coach Stephen Hart. He made his debut in an international friendly versus Panama last March and now he's in the squad for tomorrow's Copa America qualifier versus Haiti in Panama City.
The 22-year DirecTV W Connection midfielder knows that the opportunity is one he must grab with both arms and feet.
"This is big opportunity and it's something I've been waiting on and one that I worked hard for," Williams said.
"I would say to other players like myself who are hoping to make their debut for the national team, to keep working hard and believing. You have to stay focused and always tell yourself something good will come. It's easy to lose hope but it's important to keep believing."
The former T&T Under 23 player added that the training camp in Trinidad over the past few days has been allowed him to learn more about Hart as a coach and to understand the team's approach to playing.
"It's been intense but the sessions have been quite good and I've been learning everyday. There are players in the team with a lot of experience and they are having a good run and I'm quite pleased to be part of it right now. Hopefully I can do enough to stay in the squad and be part of the set up for the World Cup qualifiers," he added.