However, we need to start "building" for 2022.
I honestly believe the following:
The TTFA, local coaches, and many fans truly believe our players have superior talent
The highest standard of local T&T football is the Pro League. There is also the Super League and various Minor Leagues.
The Pro League depends on Government subsidies to operate.
In order for the PFL to be fiscally viable, they have to be in the business of generating revenue to earn profits
The main source of revenue is player sales. So the push is to sell as many players as possible. If a player shows potential or promise, arrangements are made for a trial with a foreign club with a view to an ultimate sale.
Recently a number of T&T players have been sold to clubs in Central America & Mexico. This is mostly a result of them being showcased with the National team.
The more players that play on the National team, the more "eyes" are on them and the better to showcase them.
So.....try and put as many local based players on the national team as possible. Once on the national team, the higher the potential for an interested foreign club. Hopefully a foreign club from one of the more reputable leagues. A club from one of those reputable leagues will likely pay more for a player.
The way these players perform at their clubs will likely influence whether other T&T players get similar opportunities.
However, the results of the mens national team means that our FIFA ranking has been steadily dropping.
This affects which foreign leagues our players MAY be eligible to play in.....particularly the EPL
It means secondary & tertiary markets such as Costa Rica, Mexico, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Kazakhstan etc are primary markets for T&T players to be sold to
The thinking in the TTFA and those pro clubs is that this is a win win situation. Players go abroad and get foreign experience playing in foreign leagues, and the clubs/agents get revenue in return. It's also seen as better for the players as the standard of the Pro League struggles to meet international standard/
So in essence, the majority of the T&T National team is being developed by club teams in these locations.
I'm afraid "Building for 2022" isn't some local development program aimed at producing better players from the youth system upward. It's more of a player auction process.
Little emphasis on proper development from U13 to senior level. Raising the standard of the Pro League and coaching at all levels. Increasing attendance at the Pro League. Ensuring facilities are in proper working condition etc.
It's more of a hustle.
I hope I'm wrong. But that's how it seems to me.