SUE-LAE McCalla is relishing the opportunity to represent the Reggae Boyz after earning his fourth and fifth international caps in their recent two-match friendly series against rivals Trinidad and Tobago.

The 32-year-old defensive midfielder made an immediate impact, scoring the decisive goal in the opening match to secure a 1-0 victory for Jamaica over their regional rivals at Montego Bay Sports Complex in St James on Thursday.

The second match ended in a 1-1 draw at Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex in Kingston on Sunday.

Despite his age, McCalla remains confident in his ability to compete at the highest level, and he is now hoping his performances in both games will enhance his chances of being selected for the Reggae Boyz team next month for the Concacaf Gold Cup qualifiers against St Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June.

“Age doesn’t matter, because right now I am very fit and I can go as long as any game,” he said. “I always strive to go out there and do my best, and hopefully the coach can select me for the upcoming games. I think I handled myself well so it is up to the coach to select me, going forward.”

McCalla also sees his recent performances as stepping stones toward securing a regular place in the national squad, especially with the World Cup fast approaching. “It is always something a professional football player would want, which is to represent their country at the highest level, and this is something that I have always looked forward to,” he said.

“The World Cup is right around the corner and it is never too late for me. Getting a professional contract at this stage of my career is also never too late for me.”

Reflecting on his contributions in both games, McCalla, who has been one of the outstanding performers for Mount Pleasant in the Jamaica Premier League (JPL) this season, says he proved his worth.

“I think that I had some fairly good performances over the two games and I also scored a goal, so that was a plus for me,” he said.

“I definitely always want to be in the national set-up so I am just going back to my club and continuing to do what I have been doing, which led me to get picked for this squad.”

Mount Pleasant, who have won their last four matches in the JPL, lead the league with 52 points — seven ahead of Arnett Gardens.

Known for his strong work ethic, McCalla remains committed to improving his game and seizing future opportunities.

“I am a very hard-working football player so I am just going to continue to put in the work each and every day and continue to play to the best of my abilities,” he said.