‘Bring your A-game’ - Mariappa calls for big performance from debuting Jamaica teammates against USA

National defender Adrian Mariappa expects a difficult match when the Reggae Boyz take on the United States in an international friendly at the Wiener Neustadter Stadium in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, today at noon (Jamaica time).

However, Mariappa, who plays as a defender for Bristol City Rovers in the English Football League Championship, says there is enough quality in the squad, which has eight new players, five of which are England-based, to put on a good performance.

"It is going to be a tough game, so they will have to bring their A-game," he said.

"They are all terrific players. I have played against most of them this season and the boys at the back are some of the best defenders around in the Championship and there is some real talent going forward.

"It is a short time for us to prepare, but things are as good as can be [in the camp]. There are a lot of good players in the squad. Everyone is clear about their jobs for [today] and it's all about executing."

Despite having only two sessions to prepare, and concerns about team chemistry, Mariappa, says the team can make up for that with a solid professional performance.

"Time is not a luxury we have," he said. "So obviously we have to be professional about it and go out there and do the job.

"Everyone is clear on their position and the way we are going to play. But we will see how it goes."

He says the game presents a good opportunity for the new England-based players to stake a claim for a spot on the Concacaf Gold Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifying squads later this year.

"They are UK-based, born in England, and for them, this is an incredibly proud moment for them to be called up to be involved with Jamaica," he said.

"Some I have known longer than others, but I've been impressed with their attitudes, so let see them show that out on the pitch."

In 27 meetings, Jamaica have won three, drawn eight and lost 16 times against the US. In the last five games between the teams, the US have won three matches and the Reggae Boyz, two.