Jamaica hire former Premier League manager in shock appointment

Jamaica have confirmed the appointment.

Steve McClaren has officially left Manchester United for an international job in a shock appointment.

McClaren returned to Man United in May 2022 to join Erik ten Hag as part of his coaching staff, having previously worked with the Dutchman during his time coaching FC Twente.

But his position at Old Trafford was clouded by uncertainty following the double appointment of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake.

McClaren has now moved on from Man United and he’s landed himself a gig at international level.

Jamaica have confirmed the appointment of the 63-year-old, having considered former Premier League boss Steve Bruce.

In a statement, he said: “I am extremely proud and excited to take up the position of head coach for the Jamaica men’s national team.

“I had no hesitation in accepting a position that is ideally suited to me at this stage of my career.”

Jamaica have been without a manager since Heimir Hallgrimsson walked away from his position after a 3-0 loss to Venezuela as the ‘Reggae Boyz’ lost all three of their games at this summer’s Copa America.

Their elimination at the group stage phase was viewed as a major disappointment.

The Jamaica squad features Premier League talent like Michail Antonio, Bobby Decordova-Reid and Ethan Pinnock as well as former Leicester City winger Demarai Gray and Kasey Palmer, who plays for Coventry City.

McClaren was also linked with Nigeria’s vacancy following Finidi George’s resignation. He held talks with Nigeria Football Federation officials in view to replacing George.

It’s not McClaren’s first managerial role at international level, having taken charge of England from 2006 to 2007.

His last managerial role was at Queens Park Rangers five years ago.

At club level, McClaren has also been in charge of the likes of Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest and Derby County.

And, of course, he worked under Sir Alex Ferguson during his first spell at Man United.