JFF receiving applications for Reggae Boyz head coach role, Ricketts says

Jamaica Football Federation president Michael Ricketts says the organisation has been getting applications from persons seeking to become head coach of Jamaica's senior men's football team.

Ricketts did not identify any of the people who have put themselves forward, but said the recruitment exercise is following the federation's usual procedure and should end with the most qualified applicant being chosen.

He said vacancies naturally attract interest, and those who want the position are required to submit applications. According to Ricketts, the process is already under way, with applicants to be interviewed before the preferred candidate is sent to the JFF board for ratification.

The national programme has been without a permanent head coach since Englishman Steve McClaren resigned last November, following Jamaica's failure to secure a place at this month's World Cup tournament.

Rudolph Speid, the experienced Jamaican coach, has been serving as interim head coach. Miguel Coley has been working alongside him as assistant coach.

Ricketts said Speid and Coley would also have to formally apply if they want to be considered for the full-time post.

He said any person seeking the job must go through the same procedure, including submitting an application with the required qualifications. The technical committee will conduct interviews and then make its recommendation to the board of directors, which will take the final decision.

Ricketts also said Speid will lead the Reggae Boyz for tomorrow's friendly international against South Africa, a team already qualified for the World Cup, in Mexico.

The JFF, in a media release, said applicants for the head coach position must hold a current Concacaf A Licence, or an internationally accepted equivalent such as a UEFA Pro or UEFA A Licence.

The federation also said candidates should have a demonstrated record of coaching at an elite standard, preferably with senior national teams or top professional clubs. The role also requires strong leadership, strategic planning, tactical knowledge and communication skills, as well as the capacity to operate in demanding settings and handle expectations from varied stakeholders.

Applications for the position are to be submitted by June 30, 2026.

A largely locally based squad was named for tomorrow's match.

Goalkeepers: Coniah Boyce Clarke, Tafari Chambers.

Defenders: Christopher Ainsworth, Ronaldo Webster, Richard King, Jeovanni Laing, Kyle Ming, Jon Bell, Robino Gordon, Tarick Ximenes.

Midfielders: Adrian Reid Jr, Brandon Cover, Nickyle Ellis, Dwight Merrick, Courtney Clarke.

Forwards: Kaheim Dixon, Dwayne Atkinson, Trivante Stewart, Dajaune Brown, Nickalia Fuller, Khori Bennett, Ronaldo Robinson.