Leon Bailey's Jamaica return in doubt after injury in Aston Villa-Leicester clash
UPDATE: The Jamaica National Team welcomes back Leon Bailey after a long absence, but a hamstring injury forced his withdrawal, with Jamal Lowe stepping in as his replacement.
Jamaican Leon Bailey (yellow shirt) during the 1-0 victory against Guatemala in the quarterfinal July 9, 2023 Gold Cup at the TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, OH. Photo|Gasner Delvarin Jr.
Gasner Delvarin Jr.
September 2, 2024
Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey has been recalled to the Jamaican national team for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League matches, marking his return to international competition. The 27-year-old was included in the 23-man squad on Friday by new Jamaica manager Steve McClaren.
However, after Bailey sustained a hamstring injury during Aston Villa's game Saturday against Leicester, the extent of the injury remains unclear, raising concerns about whether he will recover in time for the games against Cuba on September 6 and Honduras on September 10.
Therefore, the team announced his withdrawal, with Jamal Lowe stepping in as his replacement.
Bailey last played for Jamaica in November 2023 but was suspended by former coach Heimir Hallgrimsson for breaking curfew during the CONCACAF Nations League finals in March.
Following the suspension, Bailey took a hiatus from international duty, opting out of two World Cup qualifiers against the Dominican Republic and Dominica, and did not join the team for the Copa America.
Aston Villa hopes the international break gives Bailey time to recover for the Premier League.
JFF | Leon Bailey | Jamal Lowe | Aston Villa | Leicester | Gasner Delvarin Jr.