Given the challenges presently facing the Guyanese senior football programme, former Golden Jaguars captain Chris Nurse believes previous head coach Jamaal Shabazz is the perfect choice for the top post of the national senior setup.
Speaking exclusively with Stabroek Sports, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers midfielder said: “Shabazz is one of the pioneers of football in the Caribbean region, he has proven his capability to change the fortunes of Guyanese football and is an essential component for development and growth of the game in Guyana”.
According to 30-year-old London native:”He has been a first hand witness to the success and failures of Trinidad football and these experiences will be vital in taking Guyana football forward.”
Nurse, who is the nation’s most successful captain further said:”It is not often someone so highly regarded in Caribbean football, with such an expanded network of contacts and connections, would want to accept such a challenging role as to assist in the development of football in Guyana.
“At this critical time of transition for the GFF and Normalization Committee, his importance is invaluable, and should be utilized to grow and develop the game in Guyana holistically, the domestic football, school football, grassroots football and pro league football,” Nurse added.
Quizzed if the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) should have considered another overseas coach, he said:”It is circumstantial, if there was a candidate with a greater understanding of the Caribbean culture, mentality, and procedures. With a greater level of proven achievement and the network of connections to take Guyana football forward then maybe.
“But I cannot think of anyone to mind, who would be willing to bring such credentials to a federation with minimal facilities and the financial constraints that the GFF currently faces. I think Shabazz is the correct and necessary appointment at this time.”
Asked if he thought Alpha United tactician Wayne Dover was overlooked once more for the top post, he said:”I do not think he is overlooked, he is on the staff and both coach Shabazz and coach Dover make a tremendous team together, they complement each other very well.
“I’m certain there is no animosity between the two and they are happy to be re-united together in the National Team capacity. Dover has long devoted his life to this game and it is important he remains an integral part of the development and progression of the game at all levels in Guyana,” he added.
Questioned if the team can replicate their previous results achieved under his stewardship, Nurse said:”In football you get what you deserve, with time, preparation and commitment from all levels, public and private Guyana, the media, the government, Guyana can return and surpass the previous success.
“However there will be no overnight miracles. We have not played a game for two years. We are about to embark on a rebuilding process, it will take time. But there for sure will be a visible improvement”.
“We have lost some big soldiers to retirement, those players were not only good football players but their commitment, professionalism and character were exemplary to the team. They helped raise the standard and professionalism in camp and these persons will be missed,” he added.
