Despite receiving public criticism for his performances and off the field decisions, Reggae Boyz winger Leon Bailey says he’s looking forward to playing in front of the supporters at the National Stadium when they take on USA Thursday evening in the quarterfinal of the Concacaf Nations League.

The Aston Villa star hasn’t played for the national senior men’s team in a year due to a number of reasons. After playing both matches against Canada in November 2023, Bailey was suspended by former head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson for the finals of the Nations League in March of this year after breaching curfew.

Also in March, the 27-year-old announced he would be taking a break from the Reggae Boyz, after stating his frustrations about the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) in an interview with Jamaican podcaster Jaii Frais. That led to him turning down a call up to the Copa America squad in June after being initially named in the 26-man team.

Following discussions with new head coach Steve McClaren, Bailey was set to return for the September and October matches in the group stage of the Concacaf Nations League but was ruled out due to injury. He’s now set to make his first appearance in 12 months against the Americans.

Supporters and critics have voiced their frustrations with Bailey over the recent incidents as well as his performances on the pitch with five goals and six assists in his 30 appearances. His last goal for Jamaica was in a 3-2 away win over Haiti in October 2023, while his last goal on Jamaican soil was against Mexico in a 1-1 draw in 2022.

However, after seeing an improvement in the turnout, Bailey says he’s eager to make a mark.

“The last few games I’ve seen that the stadium been looking really full and I like the vibes that’s there and the energy. I think it’s amazing to see and I hope we can continue having the stadium at that capacity because it really does help the players. I’m really happy to see what it’s going to be like (today),” he said.

“It feels good, it feels amazing. It’s exactly one year since I’ve been here, time has passed and I definitely missed being here. It’s a great feeling being back home, getting some sun, being with the boys it’s been good.”

Prior to his arrival this week, Bailey had high praise for McClaren and after officially meeting the coach, says he’s the right man for the job.

“He’s a very good individual that I respect a lot. I knew a lot about him before and now having him here is a good feeling. I met him for the first time, we had a good bond because we were speaking a lot before we even actually met in person so it felt really good to meet him,” said Bailey.

“Working with him has been good, I like what he’s been about, he’s just a great individual. He has a great character which I like and he’s very good with the players and it’s been something I was excited about because I knew he had a great personality and to see it with the players, it’s amazing.”