Leon Bailey of Aston Villa is struggling to replicate his Premier League form on the international stage, and the Jamaican Football Federation president is disappointed by the criticism leveled at him.
In a recent impassioned rebuttal to his critics, Leon Bailey wasted no time in pointing out that Jamaica has only lost three competitive games since he forced his way into the Reggae Boyz picture in 2019.
However, with one goal and no assists in his last eight appearances, Aston Villa’s £25 million forward, Bailey, has been largely ineffective even against opposition such as Guatemala, Haiti, and Grenada.
However, Michael Ricketts believes that the criticism leveled at Bailey’s performances is exaggerated.
Aston Villa’s star is battling for his country.
“That’s how the game is.” Form can be difficult to maintain at times. All will be well once you regain your form,” the Jamaican Football Federation chief tells the Jamaica Star.
“(The criticism) is disheartening. His heart is where it should be.
“‘You will get it right soon, and then all of Jamaica will embrace you again,’ I told him.” I’m confident he’ll get it right soon.
“(The criticism) is regrettable. After the game, Leon told me, “President, whatever I do, I want to do for my country.” I don’t want it to be for myself’. It touched me when he said that to me.”
Bailey’s recent club form, on the other hand, has been quite impressive.
The former Bayer Leverkusen striker has six goals and six assists in 18 appearances for Unai Emery this season, and he came off the bench to help Arsenal beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 on Sunday.
Aston Villa captain John McGinn lauded the performance.
Leon Bailey has already scored six goals this season.
“What a win,” McGinn exclaims to Villa TV. “I think we deserved to be behind at halftime.” Analyzing it, I’m not sure if that’s the right thing to say. We had to be brave in the second half and roll our sleeves up.
“The two subs who came on, Youri (Tielemans) and Leon, were outstanding.” Brave. Youri’s pass for Ollie (Watkins’ winner) is brilliant. And it’s a fantastic goal.”
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