3/1 To Win
Derby County midfielder Duane Holmes made his international debut for the United States of America on Wednesday night.
The 24-year-old pulled on the US jersey for the first time as their preparations for the CONCACAF Gold Cup, which starts later this month, continued.
Holmes was introduced as a second half substitute, replacing Cristian Roldan in the 66th minute, however, it would be a frustrating evening for the US as a goal on the hour mark from Shamar Nicholson secured the Jamaicans victory.
His introduction sparked Gregg Berhalter’s side into life as he earned plaudits from pundits and supporters, however, he could not help them find the equaliser as they fell to defeat.
“It was a really proud moment for me and my family to make my debut,” Holmes said, speaking after the game.
“It’s something that I’ve really been working hard to get to. Unfortunately, though, it came in a loss and I’ve always put the team before myself. The result didn’t go our way today.
“The plan was always to come on for 25 minutes since I’m coming back from injury. I haven’t played tons of football in the past two months with a nagging calf issue.
“Mentally I was prepared to make my debut today and I’m just happy that my Dad got to share this moment with me.
“A year ago I was at Scunthorpe United and now I’ve been able to represent my country. I’m learning every day and even when I moved to Derby, which is a bigger club, I’ve kept my mind to the tasks in front of me.
“Frank Lampard was able to talk with Gregg and tell him about me and my style of play, which helped. You can never stop learning and that’s what I’m going to continue to do.”
The midfielder will hope his impressive display will land him a place in the final 23-man roster for the Gold Cup which will be named this afternoon at 2:30pm GMT.
