Hallgrímsson says Bailey must decide future
Reggae Boyz coach Heimir Hallgrimsson said he wishes Leon Bailey would continue to represent the country for a long time but contends the decision will be up to the Aston Villa ace.
Bailey was suspended for the Concacaf Nations League semi-final against the United States of America (USA) on Thursday, which Jamaica lost 3-1 in extra-time, for breaking curfew.
The player went on a social media interview and apart from citing several contentious issues in the camp, declared that he will be taking a break from international football to concentrate on his club career.
When quizzed in the post-match press conference on the possibility of Bailey's return, Hallgrimsson placed the ball firmly in the player's court.
"It (suspension) was just this camp. For us, we hope that he will play for a lot of years for Jamaica. At the moment, he is Jamaica's hottest player, but it is up to him to decide that," Hallgrimsson said.
Meanwhile, despite missing Bailey, Demarai Gray, Shamar Nicholson and Mickel Antonio, the Reggae Boyz had a brave performance in their extra-time defeat at the AT&T Stadium in Texas, USA Thursday night.
Greg Leigh headed the boyz in front with just a minute on the clock.
However, Corey Burke's own goal provided the hosts with an unexpected equaliser on the last kick of the game.
Haji Wright completely turned the game around and send the USA into Sunday's final with two goals in either period of extra time.
"It really, really hurts for the guys - doing so well for 90 minutes and conceding a goal with the last touch of the game.
"I feel for them, but I want to give them a lot of credit for this game against the USA at home and missing so many players," added Hallgrimsson.
USA coach Gregg Berhalter said the Jamaican defence was impenetrable and they had given up hope.
"The worst thing to do is give up an early goal against a 5-4-1. When we got the goal at the end it was a miracle," he said.
The USA will play Mexico in Sunday's final, while Jamaica will play Panama in the playoff for third place.