Premier League star to swap nationalities in England bid despite two caps for Jamaica
Omar Hutchinson has opted to nail his colours to England's mast as he eyes international recognition with the Three Lions despite the Ipswich star playing for Jamaica previously
by Samuel Meade · The MirrorIpswich Town's Omari Hutchinson has confirmed his allegiance to England despite already being capped by Jamaica.
The ex-Chelsea midfielder, who made the move to Portman Road in the summer, is looking to push his case for Three Lions involvement. He was called up to England's U21s in August after a breakthrough season and those in camp have been looking to convince him to remain.
Several meetings have been held on various occasions over the last 12 months with Jamaica asking him to fully commit to them. The Athletic report Hutchinson enjoyed playing for Jamaica with his dad Leon born on the Caribbean island, but has opted to fully commit to England.
His decision was somewhat forced because if he'd earned one more cap for Jamaica he wouldn't be able to switch allegiance. A player becomes cap-tied to a nation after playing more than three matches for that team - or one competitive appearance.
Thus far Hutchinson has played two friendlies with Jamaica - one against Catalonia in May 2022 and the other against Trinidad and Tobago last year. In the past he has represented England at U17 and U19 level.
Jamaica boss Steve McClaren, who was appointed in July after his stint as Manchester United's assistant, was involved in trying to convince Hutchinson to earn more caps there, but was unsuccessful in doing so.
The Ipswich man will now face far greater competition having pledged himself to the Three Lions. Even in the U21s he's rubbing shoulders with the likes of Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers. England though have shown themselves keen on utilising the age grade pathways.
Interim boss Lee Carsley was previously with the U21s, just like Gareth Southgate before that. Even in Carsley's first squad several players got their first caps off the back of their youth performances - the likes of Angel Gomes.
Over the coming week Hutchinson will play alongside Ipswich team-mate Liam Delap, who has been in the goals recently, as the U21s continue their qualification for the Euros. First they host Ukraine at Bournemouth ’s Vitality Stadium before taking on Azerbaijan at Bristol City’s Ashton Gate four days later.
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