Blake reaches milestone for club

Reggae Boyz captain Andre Blake believes his milestone of 201 appearances for his Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise Philadelphia Union is among the best achievements in his football career.

The standard makes Blake the most capped goalkeeper for Philadelphia.

"It's definitely up there. It's a great milestone and accomplishment, and this just goes to show that consistency is key. You don't just play 200 games; like, you have to be performing, so I'm happy and humbled, but the journey goes on," said Blake.

The 31-year-old Blake, who was drafted by the Philadelphia Union back in 2014, is a two-time MLS goalkeeper of the year winner, having done so in 2016 and 2020. The former Clarendon College standout believes his eight-year stint in the MLS has been more than satisfying.

"Two thousand and fourteen seems like it was just yesterday. It's definitely been a journey, with its ups and downs. When I really reflect on where I'm coming from to where I'm now, it's been an amazing journey and I'm very thankful. It's great to be able to grow with a club and bloom wherever I'm planted," added Blake.

He is hopeful that this season the Philadelphia Union can lift the MLS trophy for the first time in their history, after going close several times.

The Philadelphia Union are leaders in the Eastern Conference with 60 points, 11 clear of CF Montreal, with their latest victory coming on Saturday night with a 2-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls.

"We are hoping this is the year, now that we are having a great run. We all thought that last year would have been the year, but you know when you get to the play-offs, it's a different ball game," Blake said.

"We are going to go for it with everything that we have and give it our best shot. The guys are hungry, I'm hungry, so we are hopeful that our best shot will be good in the end," Blake added.

At the international level, the Reggae Boyz will lock horns with Argentina on September 27 at the Red Bull Arena in New Jersey and Blake is looking forward to the encounter.

"It's an interesting game against a top opponent. We will see how it goes, check the timing, and see what's going on with my club at that time.

"I've been playing a lot of games, a lot of travelling, but I always want to represent my county, so let's see how this one plays out, "Blake concluded.