Owls take Silvio Spann on trial.

By: Flex Mohammed.
09-Mar-2006 - Sheffield Wednesday have taken Trinidad and Tobago midfielder Silvio Spann on trial after the midfielder turned down a two-year contract extension from his club Yokohama FC. The 24-year-old has previously attracted interest from Birmingham City, Anderlecht and Bolton Wanderers and has played for Perugia before moving to Japan.
He told the Soca Warriors website: ''The club in itself has been great for me and it's one of the seasons in my career that I will cherish for a long time to come. But at the end of the day, I am keeping my options open and hopefully something good will come along.''
Owls boss Paul Sturrock who was also responsible for signing Kenwyne Jones at Southampton has made it clear that an experienced central midfielder is a priority for the club, and Spann certainly has experience after helping his country to the World Cup finals in Germany.
Dundee United have also been offered the opportunity to sign the Trinidad & Tobago midfielder until the end of the season. But the former Perugia star is keeping his options open. At the moment he is seeking alternative employment in order to be fit for this summer's World Cup finals in Germany, where his Leo Beenhakker-coached side will meet England. Should Silvio sign with Wednesday he will team up with Craig Rocastle who has links with T&T and Reggae Boyz striker Deon Burton.

Silvio heading out of Yokohama.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
21-Dec-2005 - Midfielder Silvio Spann will be with a new club next season after deciding that has had enough at Japanese club Yokohama FC. Spann, a prominent member of the Soca Warriors is now back home for the holidays and is looking at options, after turning down an offer from the club to sign for an extra two years.
Spann netted in his final appearance for Yokohama, in a 4-1 loss to Belmare last month.
“The coach started me as a striker in that match because he knew it was the last match of the season and the club honoured me on that day after we qualified for the World Cup.
“The club in itself has been great for me and it’s one of the seasons in my career that I will cherish for a long time to come. But at the end of the day, I am keeping my options open and hopefully something good will come along.
“But definitely, my days in Yokohama will always be special,” Spann said.
Also back home for the holidays is American-based defender Avery John who, like his team-mates, is still walking around in smiles after playing his part in T&T’s qualification for Germany.
John will be in T&T until February, before returning for pre-season training with New England Revolution.
Also back home are Scott Sealy and Cornell Glen and both will return to Kansas City Wizards and Colorado Rapids for pre-season training.

Japanese club honours Silvio Spann.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
23-Nov-2005 - Midfielder Silvio Spann was on honoured yesterday in front his home crowd at the Mitsuzawa Stadium, in Yokohama, as his club went into action against Kofu FC.
Spann was elated to receive the tremendous reception on his return to the club on Monday.
Unlike a couple of his UK-based team-mates who ran into problems with their clubs for late arrivals after the match, Spann got just the opposite from his management team.
“They were so happy for me and I felt extremely good to be honoured by the club for our achievement of qualifying for the World Cup,” Spann said.
“I was not in the squad for the match, but at the same time I am keeping myself ready for anything, because the journey has in a way just started for us. But we are still enjoying every moment of the success.”

Spanning the globe.

By: Ian Prescott.
04-Nov-2005 - Do you know there are 8,964 miles between Japan and Trinidad and Tobago? Silvio Spann might know. He has been feeling every one of them every time he comes home to play an International match for T&T.
A day after landing in Trinidad, Spann was absolutely exhausted following one of Leo Beenhakker's training session. Despite being very fit, the combination of a long flight and a torrid training session had taken their toll on the young T&T international footballer.
"For me, that is the greatest difficulty...the up and down. But that is the price I have to pay to represent my country. And it is an honour to represent Trinidad and Tobago."
Despite the long hours of travel and the certain jet lag, Spann says he will make the trip any and every time coach Beenhakker calls on him. He's eager to get to the World Cup Finals.
"To play with the national team has been a real honour for me," he says in a soft tone. "I would very much like to go to the World Cup. That is something that I would like to do for my father because he was not able to do it in his time."
Silvio laughs, when compared to his father Leroy, a former national captain with a big reputation in T&T even now...long after his heyday.
"First of all, I am not a left-footer like him, and those are very big shoes to fill. I think that rather than try to do that, I just have to do the best than I can."
Modest, he appears, but Spann has already done a lot in just 24 years. A former student of Couva Junior Secondary and St Benedict's College, Spann played club football with Doc's Kelwalaas and Vibe CT 105 W. Connection in the local leagues, before getting his first overseas contract while still a teenager. At 19, he was signed by Perugia, an Italian club, at which he stayed for two seasons, before returning to play for W. Connection.
Now in his first season with the Japanese second division club Yokohama F.C., Spann says he is comfortable in Japan, despite being the only Trinidadian to play there. And despite the cultural difference, he has already taken to the Japanese people. He admires their politeness and resourcefulness and they have been able to help him settle. His biggest problem in Japan may be the food. He is allergic to shell fish and unfortunately the only Japanese food he can eat is sushi...raw fish.
"A lot of the food the Japanese eat is raw and because of my allergies that has caused me some problem. What I have had to do is find an Italian restaurant so that I can still get my pasta...and so on."
Because the Japanese have taken to him, Spann is determined to make the best of his situation. He often mentions that with God's help, everything will work out. Already, he already become a favourite at Yokohama, a club which after a very slow start, has only now started to pick up victories and is eighth of the 12 teams in the competition. He says he has had to make some adjustment after playing the laid back football of the T&T Pro league for some time.
"The game in Japan is very fast. The Japanese are not strong people, so they have to be quick. There football is also technically very good."
Spann, hopes to use his stint in Japan to improve his game.
He list his own strengths as being a good defensive midfield, having a good first touch, and being able to shoot the ball very well. These are the skill he hopes will take both Yokohama up the league table and T&T to the World Cup Finals.

Sports Editor's Note:
Although Silvio Spann, because of his two yellow cards, was not eligible to play for T&T in this country's 2-1 victory over Mexico here last month, he will however be again available from the first home game on November 12 against Bahrain.

Support brewing for ‘Warriors’.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
02-Nov-2005 - One of this country’s professionals playing his trade in a part of the world where Trinidad and Tobago’s last opponent before Germany comes from says he can guarantee support from that part of Asia for the Warriors.
Japanese-based midfielder Silvio Spann boasted about the compliments and positive feedbacks he has received over the last few days since his return to Yokohama in Japan over T&T’s resounding win over Mexico and the support for his team in the upcoming playoff matches against Bahrain on November 12 and 16.
The former National Under 23 skipper is also aware of the attempts to dismantle T&T’s hopes with the news of David Nakhid’s link with Bahrain quickly followed by his denials and the Jamaicans possibly accommodating the opponents on their Caribbean trip.
And down under, skipper Dwight Yorke has been getting well wishes from fans who are also familiar with T&T through the exploits of World batting star Brian Lara.
According to some of the professionals based in the United Kingdom and United States, T&T’s fan base continues to grow as the supporters attached to the respective clubs are backing T&T and have been requesting any ‘Warriors’ paraphernalia available.
“These days I cannot describe the feeling because it seems that everyone wants Trinidad (and Tobago) to qualify for the World Cup,” Spann told TTFF Media. “You remember me after the game and I didn’t even play  against Mexico but since then I have been enjoying every moment of it. The talk back at my club is ‘Come on Silvio and T&T, let’s do it. We believe you can do it.”
Spann added that the Japanese fans have been talking about having seen the Bahrain team in action. “They all believe that we are a better team than Bahrain but the most important thing is for us to prove it on the 12th and 16th,” Spann said.
And as to what influence his father, former National midfielder Leroy Spann, is having in terms of getting the former St Benedict’s College skipper ready for the biggest games of his life.
“He believed from day one that we could get to the World Cup and he’s been through this already so definitely I have been trying to learn from his guidance. As a matter of fact both him and my mom are already arguing about who is going to Germany to see the games.”
“Like my brother Latas says it, we go vibes it up for sure, by the Grace of God,” Spann added.
Yorke on the other hand has been a hit with the Sydney Supporters group who recently put up a banner with a T&T flag at one of the club’s matches.
“It’s an amazing thing because there’s no doubt that if we can qualify for the World Cup a lot of people will be supportive of us. We all know what a story this will be,” Yorke said. “But before that we have one more hurdle to get over and that has got to be our focus.”
And while some of the focus recently has switched from the team and towards the Nakhid saga, West Ham goalie Shaka Hislop is confident the positive vibrations will return once the team assembles in Port of Spain on November 7.
“I think once we get together again and the preparations begin then everything will be in place for this game. Nothing will distract us and the people will know what has to be done in terms of supporting the team,” Hislop said.
The overseas pros will return to Trinidad on November 7 and head coach Leo Beenhakker will arrive on November 4 ahead of the clash at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. Tickets are also still carded to go on sale on November 10 at advertised KFC outlets and Republic Bank branches and the TTFF has also taken a decision to issue no complimentary tickets for this particular match.

Silvio Spann "keeping the faith"

By: Flex Mohammed.
26-Jul-2005 - Talented Japanese based midfielder Silvio Spann now back with his club Yokohama FC spoke with Flex from the Soca Warriors Online about his experience at the just concluded 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Spann who made his first appearance in the Gold Cup also his debut under new coach Leo Beenhakker said “the experience in the Gold Cup for me was a good one, especially under my new head coach Mr. Leo Beenhakker. This was my first Gold Cup and I'm sure I would see more by the grace of God.
Spann fancied his chances of being re-called to the Warriors team and stated he’s going to do his best to stay fit and get prepared. “I see myself being recalled, but in the mean time I will be preparing myself both mentally and physically whether I'm selected or not.
Not shying from T&T’s performance at the Gold Cup, Spann touched on certain things. “I think overall we were giving a little too much space for our opponents to exploit, especially Colombia. Our team seemed as if their were some tiredness. Given the fact that some players were just coming off of vacation and so on. We also learnt that, at this level a simple mistake could almost be the deciding factor in a game, resulting in a goal. I could also recall the coach saying that we will need to give a little extra, and it's true. Because, sometimes both teams are on the same level and it will take something extra from deep down to come out on top. But I guess we didn't have it in this particular tournament, but hopefully we will have it in the next World Cup Qualifier against the United States. And who's ever on the pitch wearing the red, white and black on that day. It will have to be blood, sweat and tears.
When asked about his expectations of T&T going through to the next round of the Gold Cup, Spann added. “Yes I was, along with many others. Cause we did it in the past. But I think God has a plan for our team. I always try to think positive, and see some things as a blessing in disguise.
Knowing that he could have jeopardized his club career because of the fact that he was away for a long period with the T&T team, Spann said. “The coach and the fans didn't like it, but they understood and compromised. I also dropped some weight while in the U.S. which the coach was concerned about and had the "physio" and they help me gain back the weight lost in the U.S. In Miami the food wasn’t that great.
What was great for Spann though was the experience training under new T&T coach Beenhakker. "The feeling was good working under coach Leo Beenhakker, not knowing the kind of man he is, but from his C.V. making it all interesting. His training methods was hugely different from former coach Bertille St Clair's and I can see myself learning a lot from him for my betterment and by extension my Countries' also.
He mentioned that he liked Marvin Andrews because of his attitude and his closeness to God “ Marvin is a very humble spiritually natured person and he has the mentality to give his best for his country at all times even when he has one eye covered from a serious head clash. Warrior mentality, this impresses me.
When asked about whether he’ll be available for the match against USA on August 17 and also knowing that coach Beenhakker did say he's trying to get the players a week before the actual game, Spann said. “I will always try to make myself available for my Country regardless of whoever objects. And a week before the game is a great idea, cause I will need some time to recover from that long flight, once I am selected. I am ah "Trini 2 de bone" !
Spann ended our conversation saying, "ok Flex, I'm off to bed now, I have training 3 times a day with a meeting late in the night, so you take care and Bless Up.

Warriors Forever.

T&T's Spann-Ronaldinho of Japanese football.

By: Ian Prescott (Express).
09-Jul-2005 - Wise-cracking reporter at Orange Bowl.
Yes, the Japanese do make jokes.
Takashi Mormito is a Japanese journalist covering the CONCACAF Gold Cup at Miami's Orange Bowl and also a big fan of Trinidad and Tobago's Silvio Spann, who plays his football in the Japanese First Division (which is below the J-League).
If Spann does anything at this Gold Cup, the Japanese public will know it.
Mormito is a modestly-built man with a typically Japanese face. And yes, he does crack jokes.
Introducing himself in his own unique way, he said: "So you are the only journalist from Trinidad and Tobago here at the Gold Cup?" And before I could reply, he added with a mischievous smile: "Then you are the top Trinidad and Tobago journalist here."
"Numero uno," I exclaimed.
See, I could make jokes, too.
Then, Mormito diverges onto Spann, almost with adoration in his eyes.
"He looks kinda like Ronaldinho, eh," he said, prodding me.
"We call him the Ronaldinho of Japanese football. Anytime you want to know anything about him, how he plays and so, call me," he added, while handing over a call card.
By the end of Wednesday's match against Honduras as the Trinidad and Tobago players were filing over to the team bus, Mormito acknowledged only Aurtis Whitley and signalled him to come over.
"You see Silvio Spann," Mormito said to Whitley, interested in only one T&T player and prying for the whereabouts of Trinidad and Tobago's next training session as he planned to go crosstown to the University of Miami to interview and take pictures of the Ronaldinho of Japanese football in action.

Q&A with Silvio Spann.

By: Shaun Fuentes. (01-Jul-2005).

1.What’s your most memorable moment or match, whether for country or Club?
Scoring from half field in the 2001 FA Final for Vibe CT 105 W Connection against Arima Fire. For country, scoring the penalty against Jamaica to win match 2-1 in 2004 Olympic qualifier in Mexico.

2. Name two persons, whether relative or not who have been an inspiration to you.
My father Leroy and Mother Joyce.

3.Any favourite player or team?
It’s between Russell Latapy and Zinedine Zidane. My favourite team is Brazil.

4. Any other favourite sport.
Basketball.

5. What would be your preferred other profession.
Manager of my own business.

6. What do you hope to accomplish either in next 5 years or end of playing career.
Qualifying and playing in a World Cup and playing professionally in Europe.

7. Who’s been among your most admired coaches and why?
Stuart Charles Fevirer because he helped me transform into a professional player after I came out of the Colleges League.

8. What do you think of T&T’s chances of making it to the 2006 World Cup.
With God, anything is possible and I believe once we put all our minds and efforts together, we shall qualify.

9. What areas you think need improving on and how do you think this can be achieved. 
We need to have more movement off the ball in the game which will enable quicker support and also not giving away the ball easily. Also we need more support from the people in the country.

10. Any instances or plays that you always reflect on.
When I earned my first overseas professional contract in Italy. I had to play three back to back games in one week and scored in every match for Perugia.

11. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received.
Hang onto God’s unchanging hands. I read that.

12. What do you do to relax away from the game.
Read the bible.

13. What’s your favorite dish?
Roti and pumpkin and anything else curried.

14. Favourite drink.
A tall glass of cold Grapefruit Juice

15. Favorite time of year?
Christmas.

16. Most comfortable football boot?
Total 90 Nike boots.

17. Name one thing about yourself you would change if given the chance? Even if it meant going back in time.
Coming back home after being offered another contract with ah Italian club in 2000. I should have signed and remained.

Silvio Spann anxious for Gold Cup.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
15-Jun-2005 - Forced to miss out on T&T’s last two World Cup qualifiers against Panama and Mexico because his club refused to release him for earlier preparations, midfielder Silvio Spann is now hoping to make an impression on coach Leo Beenhakker during the 2005 Concacaf Gold Cup.
Spann said on Monday that Yokohoma FC in the Japanese League should be on break in July which will allow him the chance to play for the “Warriors” once selected.
“I am really happy to hear the team has been doing well. It shows that with good guidance and hard work that we definitely can be successful. Hopefully I can get a chance to be part of that now with the Gold Cup coming up,” Spann said.

Silvio Spann scores his first goal in Japan.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
24-Apr-2005 - Vibrant Trinidad and Tobago midfielder Silvio Spann opened his scoring account in Japan on Friday when he netted a 66th minute equalizer for Yokohoma FC in a 1-1 draw with Tokushima Vortis in the J-League Division Two action.
Spann, in his first full season with the club, got the vital goal for his club after coming off the bench in the 61st minute to leave them in fifth spot on the table.
Spann joined Coventry City’s Stern John and Kansas City Wizards’ Scott Sealy as the overseas-based pros on the scoresheets this weekend. John netted in City’s 1-1 draw with Plymouth while Sealy got his first MLS goal in the fifth minute in Wizards’ 3-2 loss to San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday. Also in the spotlight was defender Marvin Andrews who returned to the Glasgow Rangers start team in their 2-1 loss to Celtic on Sunday. Andrews, nursing a damaged cruciate ligament, also had an effort come off the cross bar before leaving the field on 83 minutes.
Spann, was probably the most of the three though as he has been labouring to establish his overseas professional career which started with Perugia in Italy.
On the back of an energetic performance in T&T’s 0-0 draw with Costa Rica last month, Spann said he was inspired to continue the good run of form.
“Right now I think it’s too much to describe the feeling having scored my first goal for the season,” Spann told TTFF Media on Sunday.
“I think a lot has paid off after all the hard work because I have waited quite some time to really settle into a team outside of Trinidad and for a while it had been frustrating but with persistence and belief in God, things are finally going good for me.”
Understanding that being the only T&T player based in that part of Asia with former China-based duo Arnold Dwarika and Gary Glasgow now back in Trinidad, would have left him out of Leo Beenhakker’s schedule of meetings, Spann felt it was important that he kept his game up and is hoping that the Dutch-born coach includes him in his plans for the upcoming 2006 World Cup qualifier against Panama at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on June 4 and the clash with Mexico in Monterrey four days later.
“I’m hoping that he would have at least seen the game against Costa Rica so at least he would have some idea of my capabilities. At the end of the day though, I think we all want the best team out there, so whether I’m there or not, I’ll be supporting either way but yes surely I’m looking forward to getting back home for the next match,” Spann said.
The former National Under 23 and St Benedict’s College skipper seemed thrilled on the news of Beenhakker’s appointment.
“I left the weekend after he was announced as coach and I think it was a big piece of news for all of us. To have a coach of his track record coming to work with us is a major plus. With all respect to Coach Bertille (St Clair), the new change is hopefully going to give us the added burst to get to Germany,” Spann ended.

Silvio Spann happy to re-unite with his T&T team-mates.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
22-Mar-2005 - Japan-base Silvio Spann is coming off three consecutive appearances for Yokohama FC and is fully recovered from a niggling knee injury. He is making his return to the T&T line up since his last appearance in the World Cup qualifying semi-final round last year. The quality is good in Japan as well which makes it a very competitive League but so far I’ve fitted in well with the team and my hope is just continue keeping my game up both for them and the national team, said Spann”
“The trip to get here was a long one but it’s always worth it when it comes to being able to join up with the rest of the team. I’m feeling good at the moment because I now have three games under my belt and the pace of the game there is amazing which has me in good touch. I’m just really looking forward to settling back with the players on this current team and getting it right for the two upcoming games,” Spann added.
“St Clair said: I was particularly impressed with the efforts of the guys who travelled from the UK yesterday. It shows that the commitment is there and then having the locally-based guys in there working just as hard was an even bigger plus.
“I think the drive to do well and get in the best shape possible is there and it shall pay off when the matches come around.” coach Bertille St Clair who conducted two training sessions for two hours each with the “Warriors”at the Sunrise Boulevard Hilton training pitch in Ft Lauderdale, yesterday. In their lone warm-up match before taking on Guatemala, T&T will meet American A-League side Atlanta Silverbacks at the Hotel training ground today while training sessions will resume tomorrow until the team’s departure for Guatemala on Thursday.

Silvio Spann settles in Japan.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
16-Feb-2005 - Midfielder is getting set for his first season with Japanese Division Two club Yokohama FC. The energetic former Vibe CT 105 W Connection player has been with the club for the past few weeks, taking an active part in their pre-season training camp in Hawaii.
Spann, who had been in the local team for the semi-final round before having to take up duty with his new club, called in the T&T camp on the Monday, before the clash with United States to wish his teammates well.
“It’s been a good experience so far. I have settled into the set up here and pre-season training has been intense but enjoyable so far,” Spann said.
“I am just working really hard to ensure that I am in the first team when the league starts, and at the same time I’m trying to keep my game up because I still intend to come back and rejoin the national team once I get a call up and can make the trip back.”
Spann is one of three overseas players at the club, with German Steven Tweed and Brazilian Jefferson Viera Da Cruz also on the roster. Spann’s team opens their 2005 season against Shonan on March 5.

Silvio Spann joins Yokohama FC.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
12-Jan-2005 - National midfielder Silvio Spann is expected to fly out this week to join Japanese First Division club Yokohama FC after signing a three-year contract last week.
Spann, currently attached to Vibe CT 105 W Connection after a deal with Croatian side Dinamo Zagreb fell through, will join the club for preseason training and is facing the possibility of missing this country’s February 9 World Cup qualifier against the United States.
Of course, this depends on the composition of the squad for that game and whether coach Bertille St Clair will demand the services of the former St Benedict’s College captain.
Spann was not in the side which beat St Vincent and the Grenadines 3-1 on Sunday having just come off the flu virus but he was wished well by his fellow teammates inside the dressing room following the match. Now he’s expected to force his way into the Yokohama squad.
“It’s a challenge for me because I am hoping I can go there and establish myself in the team,” Spann said.
“I must thank God for looking over me and allowing me the chance to get through with this contract and I also appreciate the support of my current club, teammates and coaches as well as my family members and other friends. They have all played an important role in my career so far and I would also like to say to the guys on the national team that they must go out there and give it their best shot,” Spann added.

Silvio Spann heading to Japan ?

By: Shaun Fuentes.
12-Nov-2004 - Fresh from an impressive trial in Japan, midfielder Silvio Spann has forced his way back into the Trinidad and Tobago 18-man squad for next Wednesday's 2006 World Cup qualifier against St Vincent and the Grenadines at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
The dreadlocks-style versatile has been tipped to join Yokohama FC following a trial there but made his way back home in order to train under coach Bertille St Clair who has included him in the team along with Errol McFarlane who scored the double in the previous win over St Vincent.

Silvio Spann gets FCB ‘MVP’ award.

By: Nigel Simon.
09-Oct-2004 - Silvio Spann of Vibe CT 105 W Connection has been voted the “Most Valuable Player” in the First Citizens Bank Cup knockout tournament of the T&T Professional Football League.
At a presentation function on Thursday in the VIP Lounge of the Hasely Crawford Stadium, it was announced that Spann got the nod over leading goalscorer Kurt Williams of Defence Force.
Midfielder Silvio, son of former national player, Leroy “Spanner” Spann, played a vital role in helping WCFC to win the tournament final on penalty kicks over Defence Force.
W Connection collected the $35,000 first prize and Defence Force the runner-up $25,000 award.
Third-placed Starworld Strikers received $20,000 and fourth-placed North-East Stars $16,000.
Winner of the $5,000 first prize in the Rhythm Section Competition was Siparia Rhythm Posse, with Links Phythm Posse taking the $3,000 prize for second place and Defence Force the $2,000 for finishing third.

Silvio Spann force to leave Dinamo Zagreb.

01-Aug-2004 - According to a close source, Spann signed with Dinamo Zagreb on a "free transfer" but then the club found out that he already had a contract with another club when he signed. The other club (W Connection) wanted a transfer fee but Dinamo Zagreb refused to pay and had to let him go.

Silvio Spann signs with Croatia's Zagreb.

By: Shaun Fuentes.
23-Apr-2004 - Trinidad and Tobago midfielder Silvio Spann has signed a four-year contract with Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb. The National Under 23 skipper has been away on trials at a few clubs in recent weeks, including Crystal Palace and Derby County, before finally agreeing to terms at Zagreb which is into the 2004/2005 UEFA Champions League.
The 22-year-old Spann is currently with his agent Louis Jeff Affor in England and is expected back home shortly before joining Zagreb for pre-season training on June 5. Spann, a former St Benedict's College player who last played for Vibe CT 105 W Connection before becoming a free agent, was delighted with his new move.
"Obviously it's another big step for me and this is something I have waited patiently for. I thank God for presenting me with this opportunity. After moving to Italy and playing for a while there and then coming back to play at home, I feel good to be back out here again," Spann told TTFF Media from England on Friday.
"Dinamo Zagreb is a well established club and I feel privileged to have signed with them and also represent Trinidad and Tobago in Croatia now. At the moment I'm just sorting out some minor stuff and I should begin training with the team during their pre-season campaign. It's a big challenge but I think once I can maintain my focus and stay free from injury then I should be able to fit into their style of the game," added the former Perugia FC player.
Spann last represented this country at the CONCACAF Olympic qualifiers in Mexico where he was selected on the tournament's All Star team after previously lining up for the Senior national team as well against South Africa, Venezuela and Morocco. He is now anticipating a return to the T&T team under coach Bertille St Clair. "Playing for your country is always something that you look forward to and once I can get the call again, I will be putting my best foot forward because we have an important period ahead with the World Cup qualifiers starting in June," said Spann.

Never say die Silvio Spann.

By Jamaal Shabazz.
12-Dec-2002 - Disappointments in football must be answered with performances on the field. And who would know better than Trinidad and Tobago and W. Connection midfielder Silvio Spann. The talented young midfielder was voted Man of the Match in the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation’s FA final last week and given the thumbs up by his coach Stuart Charles and David John-Williams, CEO and president of his club.
“Silvio has again proven that he is one of the better midfielders in the local game,” said Charles.
“He is a midfielder who tries to affect the game.
He works hard to win the ball back, either tries to score or assists his team-mates in scoring and this is what you need in the modern midfielder,” added Charles.
“His performance tonight reminded me of the role Gilberto Silva played for Brazil in the last World Cup,” said an elated John-Williams on final night.
“The rest of Trinidad and Tobago must be wondering how a player like this was left out of the national team,” added John-Williams with reference to Spann’s omission from the T&T squad for the recent Gold Cup qualifying tournament.
It is not the first time that the 21-year-old Silvio has had to rebound from the disappointment of non-selection on a national team.
In 1999 at age 18, Silvio was left out from the T&T Under-20 team for the CONCACAF Under-20 Championships. After captaining that Under-20 team for most of the eight-month preparation period Spann and fellow skillful midfielders, Conrad Smith and Kwame Wilshire, were left out by Englishman Jim Kelman in favour of more robust-tackling midfielders.
The son of former national stand-out midfielder, Leroy Spann, Silvio rebounded by gaining a contract one week after that tournament with Italian Serie A Club Perugia.
“Scouts of Perugia were on the island and when they saw Silvio playing for the W. Connection Under-20 team and they learnt his age they immediately made us an offer,” explained John–Williams.
Three seasons in Perugia has matured Silvio, not just on the field, but off it as well and non-selection no longer has an effect on him.
“Being a man of God I always believe that you have to please God. Men are in charge of the worldly realm, but God is the ultimate boss.
“In football I have learnt to answer my disappointments by working harder on the field,” insists Silvio.
This determination displayed by young Silvio has been infectious and affected at least one of his national team-mates in a positive way.
Caledonia AIA’s midfielder, Conrad Smith, who like Spann was left out of the Under-20s in 1999 says he derived inspiration from the way “Silvio handled it”.
“Silvio was an inspiration to me back then and still is today, says Smith.
“I remember when we got dropped in ‘99, Silvio said ‘lets fight it and put that behind us’. When I saw he went to Italy, I was even more excited.
“Look at the results. We went on to make our national senior team debuts and now we are competing for a place in the regular team.
“Spann is a fighter and when he got dropped and rebounded, I told myself I could do the same.Soon we won’t be able to be kept out of the team,” insists Smith.
However, despite the enormous strength shown by Silvio, his father Leroy cannot help but hurt for his son. A dedicated professional himself with 18 years of service to the national team, the older Spann is one of his son’s coaches at W. Connection.
“They have got to be fair. If a man is playing well play him in his right position and give him a fair chance,” said Leroy.
“I am a coach so I know how difficult team selection is, but you have got to select players on merit... not favoritism.
“I think Silvio is a good player. He shows good attack and good defence. I feel more hurt for him, than he felt for himself when he did not make the national team on this occasion.
“I 1999 it was amazing how he did not make that team despite being captain for most of the preparation period. But when he got the contract in Italy that compensated.
“This time around he is more stronger mentally,” his father said.
Perugia do not seem to be on the cards on this occasion however, as W. Connection’s chairman John-Williams revealed that negotiations broke down between the three-time TTFF FA champs and the Italian club side.
“W. Connection was not satisfied with the financial offer that Perugia made for Silvio. Of course they want him, but for a player of his calibre we are getting better offers from other clubs,” he explained.
“We are now waiting for the transfer window to open in January to explore some other offers for Silvio,” he John-Williams says.
In the meantime Silvio told the Express Sports: “My immediate focus is this Caribbean Club Championships.
“This will be my first Caribbean tournament and I intend to give it my best as if I am playing on the national team,” he says.

Silvio Spann could head elsewhere in Europe.

Written By: Shaun Fuentes.
3-Dec-2002 - Italian-based professional Silvio Spann could be in with a chance of joining another League in Europe next year. The possibility of paying in Spain is there as well as a renewal of contract with Italian club Perugia.
According to President of 2003 TTFF FA Trophy champions Vibe CT 105 W Connection, David John Williams, had Spann played in T&T's recent Gold Cup qualifiers, his chances of obtaining a work permit to play in England would have strengthened and a deal with Premiership club Southampton may have been on the table.
But Spann is prepared to weigh his options.
"I feel great to win the title. Coming back from a league where the caliber of football is high, I also taught that our team here has the same caliber. I feel this team can go to Italy and play there," said Spann who helped Sambenedettese FC to the Serie C title while on loan from Perugia. He intends to continue fighting for a spot on the national team after being overlooked last month.
"I consider myself a soldier for my country. They can knock me down but I know the Lord is on my side and I am out to please him. When it comes to my country I am there always."
He added that the Italians admired him for his skill.
"We haven't qualified for a World Cup and in Italy they sort of overlook our players but while I was there they showed me respect. There was one week when I was in the papers having won an accolade for being one of the more progressive players for Perugia . They respect our players in term of our skills.
My performance was good and the crowds accepted me. For the next season expect a progressive Silvio Spann. Hopefully I will go back to Italy or maybe Spain," said Spann who will await the opening of the transfer window in January before knowing of his next move.

Silvio Spann Joins Soca Warriors.

23-July-2002 - Spann returned to these shores (T&T) earlier this month and is understood to be in the middle of renegotiations with Italian Serie A club Perugia, according to Vibe CT 105 W Connection president David John Williams. Spann was on loan with Italian Serie C club Sambenedettese earlier this year during which time they gained promotion to the Serie B.
The Trinidad and Tobago senior team comprising of several Under 23 players including Silvio Spann will leave on Wednesday for St Kitts/ Nevis where they will contest the annual Sugarbowl Festival tournament from July 25-28. Clayton Morris will serve as coach with Hutson Charles as his assistant. 

Silvio Spann loaned to 3rd division side.

29-Jan-2002 - Silvio Reinaldo Spann, the young Trinidadian midfielder who plays for Perugia in Italian Serie A, was loaned to 3rd division club, Sambenedettese FC. He will return to Perugia at the end of the 2002 season, Silvio needs the game to get some experience to some competative competition so he can try and break into the Perugia first team and hopefully singing an extended contract with them.

 

Lasana Liburd talks with T&T's first Italian pro, Silvio Spann.

NINETEEN-year-old midfielder Silvio Spann has a dreamy look on his face as he discusses his favourite topicfootball.According to some psychologists, ordinary folk dream in black and white. Spann's nocturnal adventures are coloured in red, white and black.The son of former Trinidad and Tobago midfield stand-out Leroy Spann is imagining himself running onto the field for his first competitive international cap."I picture that everyday," Spann tells the Express."I find it's high time that young players be included in the senior national team. I could see myself there with Brent Rahim in the midfield orchestrating things. (Michael) Celestine is a good player as well for the midfield."Josh Johnson, me, Celestine and Rahim."He nods his head reassuringly as if approving of his own vision. His head is cocked upwards as if to get a better glimpse of that midfield quartet.Spann is a dreamer. But in the nicest possible way.For as long as he can remember, the former St Benedict's College and Vibe CT 105 W Connection player has spent about as much time painting imaginary pictures of success as he has striving for it on the pitch.From the age of six, when his father began teaching him the rudiments of football, Spann has dreamt of following in his footsteps and becoming a "local ambassador" for the game. On June 20, 2001, reality finally caught up with his fantasies.It was the day his Italian handlers said that Perugia, a midtable Italian Serie A team, were prepared to sign him for a five-year contract.Spann could hardly contain himself until he returned to the sanctity of his hotel room."Inside of me, I was rejoicing," says Spann. "But when I left my agents, I returned to the hotel and celebrated. I just went down on my knees and praised God. He is the Author and Finisher of our joy."In retrospect, it was probably only a matter of time before Perugialed by their ambitious chairman, Luciano Gauccisigned a Caribbean player. They are a club of many "firsts".
Perugia was, after all, the first Italian club to sign a Japanese player when they bought the elegant Hidetoshi Nakata in 1998.They followed this by being the first to offer contracts to players from South Korea, China and Ecuador while, earlier this year, Perugia midfielder Fabio Liverani became the first player of African descent to represent Italy at senior level.Surely a Caribbean player would win the appreciation of the Perugian board at some point. The question many asked, though, is why Spann? "They see me as a development for the future," says Spann, of his new employers. "I trust that, with God on my side, anything is possible because he brought me there first to begin with.
"Think about it, what Trinidadian you know an Italian club would come and take. It has to be the work of God." If so, it has been a roundabout trip to salvation for Spann.
Less than six months ago, he was questioning his own ability after being cut by coach John Granville from the national under-20 team on the eve of their Concacaf World Cup qualifying series.
It was the second time that he was cut from a national squadthe first time, ironically, by Granville's younger brother, Peterand a hard blow to his ego.
"I cried later that night," he said. "To know that I went from (team) captain to on the bench to off the squad...I couldn't eat all kinda thing."
It took weeks for him to recover and only after coaxing from his father, club coaches at Connection and pastors at Miracle Ministries, Couva. But then it is not easy to sink an ego like Spann's.
"I don't really doubt my talent," he says. "Because if it is God-given, it have to be all well and good."
Once more, Spann's face takes on a peaceful countenance.
His self-belief is virtually unshakable. Unnerving even. It is his strongest asset.
On the pitch, Spann oozes charisma. Calm on the ball, precise and unfussy in his movements while also blessed with a strong right foot. He is far from a primadonna but yet seems unable to be merely a member of the pack.
It is perhaps his inability to adequately conform that did not endear him to Granville who wanted players capable of fulfilling each other's responsibilities on the fielda right back who could morph into a playmaker or maybe a striker at a moment's notice.
But Spann can only be Spann. Cocky and unflustered but without a trace of arrogance or complacency.
Try though, brushing off Spann's lone item for the Connection senior team as just "a goal".
"It was a tremendous goal actually," he declares with a chuckle, as if at the reporter's ignorance of the fact. "It was a rocket up in the vee. Jep start to sting (Anthony) Marshall all kinda thing."
Spann has no desire to feign modesty or to be obscure. He is aiming for the "big times" and not afraid to say so.
Perugia, for him, is a stepping stone to greater things.
"I'd like to say that I'd take Trinidad and Tobago on my back across there," he said, when asked what he wanted to share with the local public. "I will be an ambassador to the country. I'll give praises to my Father always because He is the One from whom all blessings flow.
"And Silvio Spann is going to make a big impression on the world."
Gaucci and his club manager, Sersi Cosmo, would probably smile to themselves.
There was never any chance of them holding onto the classy talents of Nakata but the club hardly grumbled when AS Roma offered a club record £10 million for him.
Likewise, they have already resigned themselves to losing the talented Liverani to either Juventus or Milan this season. The price, again, would have to be right.
The ambitious Spann would be right up their alley.
It is probably the most plausible argument for his Italian selection.

Silvio Spann eyes T&T selection

 

Local Italian-based professional Silvio Spann is intent on breaking into the Trinidad and Tobago senior team during the 2001/2002 season. The 19-year-old midfielder indicated his strong ambitions of donning the national jersey shortly before returning to Italian Serie "A" club Perugia last Thursday.

Spann spent two days in training with the national team under coach Professor Rene Simoes, who will soon finalise a squad to go to China on July 29 for a four-nation tournament.

However due to his pre-season commitments with Perugia, Spann was unable to continue work with Simoes.

"My desire is to play for the national team. It's my aim obviously to come back home soon and represent the country," Spann said. "This means the beginning of a new career which will hopefully see me ending up on the big stage which will be playing for Trinidad and Tobago in a World Cup.

"The experience I have had in Italy has been great and I am really looking forward to playing some more matches. I must give praise to God for giving me this opportunity because it's because of him I am able to be pursuing this dream now."

The former St Benedict's College midfielder is currently on a one-year contract with Perugia and is on the 25-man roster. He will attempt to break into the first team this coming season in aim of securing a possible three-year contract.

 

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