Steve McClaren's comments on Mason Greenwood speak volumes after ditching England plans
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Jamaica boss Steve McClaren has already offered his verdict on Mason Greenwood - with the Marseille forward giving up hopes on an England recall. The ex-Manchester United striker, who has already played for the Three Lions once against Iceland in 2020, has switched his allegiance to the Reggae Boyz. The Football Association made clear that Greenwood would not be considered for selection for England.
Greenwood was suspended by Manchester United when he was charged with attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and controlling and coercive behaviour in 2022. The 23-year-old denied the charges, which were subsequently dropped, but still found himself outside of the Red Devils' plans and eventually joined Marseille, following a season on loan at Getafe, last summer.
McClaren has been open about his desire to see Greenwood play for Jamaica, however. The ex-Middlesbrough boss has spoken about his empathy over the Marseille ace's position, and the players' desire to join up with his national team. "I’ve heard a lot of publicity about and always around Mason Greenwood,” McClaren told media in November. “I am constantly in touch with Mason, the message is always the same, ‘when the time is right'.
"You’ve got to think he’s had a traumatic time the last two years in his contract, and he’s been on loan. He’s been here, he’s been there – the publicity, and I think he just wants to settle in at Marseille and enjoy his football, which he’s doing, and he wants to join the Reggae Boyz. I know that, every time I speak to him, I’ve no reason to doubt that, and the process goes on.".
