The T&T Football Federation will be able to pay its bills for the national football team, which recently topped its group in the Caribbean Football Union qualifiers in St Kitts/Nevis.Permanent secretary in the Ministry of Sport Ashwin Creed yesterday confirmed that the federation will receive its funding today. Creed said funds were release to his ministry yesterday and the allocation of $423,218 to cover airfare and allowances for the team will be paid today.
During its time in the tournament, the team operated on credit.
Team manager William Wallace said yesterday the exercise was a test of character for the members of his team, who won all their matches. The Warriors defeated French Guiana (4–1), St Kitts/Nevis (1–0) and Anguilla (10–0) to secure a second round berth.
“We just had to wait out the time there. This has been a test of character for the boys,” said Wallace, referring to experience of having to extend their stay in St Kitts/Nevis because of the rescheduling of flights due to Tropical Storm Rafael. Wallace said the players took things in stride.
“The focus is already on the next phase and the players and coaching staff are very keen to getting down to the business of preparing for those matches,” Wallace said.
Ten more members of the team were expected home last night from St Kitts/Nevis.
On Monday, ten members of the 27-member contingent returned home, while Dave Isaac (physiotherapist/trainer) and Michael Williams (equipment manager) returned home on Tuesday night.
Vancouver Whitecaps defender Carlyle Mitchell left the island on Wednesday to return to his North American club, while Keon Daniel, Curtis Gonzalves, Robert Primus, Devorn Jorsling, Kevon Carter, Hughtun Hector, Daniel Cyrus, Joevin Jones, Clyde Leon and Richard Roy were expected yesterday.
Wallace, coach Hutson Charles, captain Jan-Michael Williams and Germany 2006 World Cup veteran, Densil Theobald have confirmed bookings to travel today.
Source: www.guardian.co.tt