Mason Greenwood at World Cup would be ‘farce,’ not ‘fair’ – Jamaica players
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Several Jamaica internationals have expressed concern over the prospect of Marseille forward Mason Greenwood joining the national team before the 2026 World Cup, warning the move would undermine the squad’s qualification efforts.
Greenwood, 24, switched international allegiance from England to Jamaica earlier this year after securing his passport. Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) president Michael Ricketts has said he remains hopeful the forward will represent the Reggae Boyz ahead of the tournament. Greenwood has not accepted a call-up in recent months and was absent from qualifiers in September.
Jamaica must first navigate intercontinental play-offs against New Caledonia and potentially DR Congo in March to secure a World Cup place. Several established squad members believe late additions could disrupt the group dynamic.
Isaac Hayden, the former Arsenal and Newcastle midfielder now at Queens Park Rangers, said calling up players who did not take part in the qualification campaign would be unfair. “I’ve only been with Jamaica for a year, and there was some resistance to me when I started. But I’ve played 12 games and given everything to help Jamaica get to the World Cup,” Hayden said. “If a player is not willing to commit for the last round of qualifying, unless they’re injured, I don’t see why they should be joining the group later.”
Greenwood is enjoying a strong season in Ligue 1 and leads the scoring charts with 10 goals in 12 matches for Marseille. Hayden acknowledged the striker’s talent but stressed that any late inclusion should be based on commitment as well as ability.
Charlton defender Amari’i Bell echoed the concerns, saying any last-minute arrivals – including other potential recruits such as Everton winger Dwight McNeil – would be a “controversial” decision. “Many of us have put our blood, sweat and tears into playing for the nation,” Bell said. “It wouldn’t seem fair to the people who have been through that whole process.”
Bell added that the squad would need internal discussions before approving any new additions, particularly ahead of a major tournament.
Greenwood has not been in England manager Thomas Tuchel’s plans and has not been considered for a senior recall since switching national allegiance.
Jamaica have placed increased emphasis on strengthening their squad with overseas-born players in recent years. The potential inclusion of Greenwood highlights the JFF’s efforts to improve the team’s competitive level but also underscores the balancing act between squad cohesion and technical upgrades as they target their first World Cup appearance since 1998.