Portmore part ways with veteran players
Long-standing captain Anthony Modeste and towering striker Newton Sterling were waived by their club, Portmore United, and will have to seek jobs elsewhere.
Trevin Nairne, general manager for the club, told the Sunday Observer they are in a rebuilding phase, hence the reason for the players’ departure.
Said Nairne: “Anthony and Newton have both been released. Anthony, especially, has been an extremely important part of the Portmore programme over the years. However, Portmore… is currently in a rebuilding phase, so we’ve spoken to Anthony about it and decided that he can for the 2009/10 season play elsewhere if he so chooses.”
He added: “At the end of the season we will evaluate the situation and see if he can fit into the Portmore… structure, whether as an assistant coach or whatever.”
Modeste, 34, who is also the captain and coach of the Grenada national team, led Portmore to one Caribbean Club title, three Premier League crowns and five St Catherine ‘Happy’ Sutherland KO successes since arriving in the country in 2002.
He also won the prestigious Tony Burrowes Award and the $100,000 cash prize for his exemplary qualities for the 2007/2008 season.
Naturally, Modeste was disappointed with the club’s position, but said he totally understands.
“I’m disappointed, but I understand because in the same breath they have some younger guys there that need exposure,” Modeste told the Sunday Observer.
“Andre Darby plays central defence and me being there will hamper his growth. I’m disappointed, but I have to understand because there is life after me,” he said.
Darby captained the National U-20 team to the brink of the FIFA World Cup Finals that ended in September.
Despite the setback, Modeste will leave Portmore with positive memories.
“Definitely, without a doubt. I won the title in my first year here, plus one Caribbean club championship,” he said.
Modeste is currently training with Arnett Gardens FC, but will have to wait until January before he can see any action.
And at age 34, Modeste thinks he has at least two years left at this level and will be giving it his all.
For now, Modeste will be heading back to Grenada before returning to Arnett Gardens in January.
Meanwhile, Nairne dispelled talk that striker Gary McIntosh was leaving the club after departing Reno FC prior to the start of the season.
