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August 8, 2015
Star Sport



 

Gold Cup stars ready for EPL opening weekend

LIVINGSTON SCOTT, STAR Writer

The English Premier League (EPL) kicks off this weekend and several Jamaican internationals will be looking to make their mark on the world's most-watched domestic football league.

Since Ricardo Gardener won promotion with Bolton Wanderers in 2001, the island has had international representatives plying their trade and making an impact in the EPL, and this season will be no different.

Since Gardener and Ricardo Fuller's Premier League careers ended in 2012 and 2013, respectively, no local-bred player has broken into the league, but English-born players with Jamaican roots continue to play in the league.

Two members of the recent Gold Cup final squad, Leicester City captain and Jamaica centre back Wes Morgan, and Crystal Palace defender Adriann Mariappa will be the only Reggae Boyz in the Premier League this season. The other players with Jamaican roots who will be in action include:

Raheem Sterling - Sterling has been one of the league's stars since bursting on the scene three seasons ago. His big transfer to Manchester City this summer has made him the most expensive English player. Much will be expected of the 20-year-old player this season.

Daniel Sturridge - One of the most feared and respected strikers in the league since joining Liverpool from Chelsea in the 2012-2013 season. He formed an amazing partnership with Luiz Suárez in his first year, but injury limited his contribution last season.

Theo Walcott - Has had injury problems for the last two seasons. At his best, his speed presents a nightmare for defenders.

Alex Oxlaine Chamberlain - This speedy player is maturing into one of Arsenal's more reliable attackers and could have a standout season this year.

Aaron Lennon - Did his best years at Tottenham Hotspur, but this speed merchant still has quality and can still win matches on his own for new club Everton.

Ashley Young - Sometimes unpredictable and inconsistent but remains one of the best wide players in the English game. He is expected to be an important part of Manchester United's plans this season.

Nathan Dyer - Has been outstanding for Swansea since their promotion in 2011 and will be a key player again this year.

Ravel Morrison - Once described by Alex Ferguson as the best player he has ever seen. The former Manchester youth player, who now plays for West Ham, enjoyed a good first season with the 'Hammers' and will be looking to improve on that this season.

Darren Bent - A renowned Premier League goalscorer. Bent has played for six Premier League clubs, with good scoring stats for most. He is now on loan at Fulham from Aston Villa. He has been off the radar for the last two seasons, but his quality in front of goal is unquestionable.

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