Steve McClaren has resigned as head coach of Jamaica following their failure to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup finals.
The Reggae Boyz went into last night’s clash with Curacao needing a win to claim top spot in Concacaf Group B and a place at the global showpiece next summer in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
But they failed to find a breakthrough – and had a late penalty award overturned by VAR – as Curacao held on for a goalless draw. They will now become the smallest nation to appear at a World Cup while Jamaica will attempt to join them via the Play-Off Tournament in March.
McClaren admits Jamaica have fallen short
McClaren, who also resigned after failing to lead England to Euro 2008 17 years ago, confirmed he had stood down following the game in Kingston.
“Over the last 18 months I have given everything I have to this job,” he said. “Leading this team has been one of the greatest honours of my career.
“But football is a results business and tonight we have fallen short of our goal, which was to qualify from this group.
“It is the responsibility of the leader to step forward, take accountability and make decisions in the best interests of the team.
“After deep reflection and an honest assessment of where we are and where we need to go, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Jamaican national team.
“Sometimes the best thing a leader can do is to recognise when a fresh voice, new energy and a different perspective is required to move this team forward.”
Curacao, a Dutch Caribbean island with a population of a little over 150,000, are led by former Sunderland and Rangers boss Dick Advocaat, although he missed the game due to a family issue.
They will now take their place alongside heavyweights Brazil, Argentina, England and Spain.
