The Editor, Sir:

The decision by Captain Horace Burrell to have brought back René Simoes was a very flawed one. This may very well have cost Jamaica a berth in the 2010 World Cup.

Many of our institutions since independence continue to rely on foreigners to wave the magic wand and save us from our economic woes, social blight, criminal enterprise or to get us to the promised land of sports. We have ignored the intellect, imagination and ability of our nationals. It is often said that familiarity breeds contempt.

Jamaica has produced football coaches such as George Thompson, Jackie Bell, Carl Brown, Bradley Stewart and Jackie Walters, just to name a few. These men have never been given the accolades or support as we have done Brazilian coaches. We seem to think that a Brazilian coach in our midst will make us 'dance' like the Brazilians of old like Zico, Socrates, Falcoa. Those days are over.

The signs

We should have seen the writing on the wall when Carl Brown was treated like a 'nobody' during the 1998 World Cup. Carl Brown's confidence was shaken from that time and when he literally gave up his job to another Brazilian.

I suggest that Cpt Burrell should also resign since he is directly responsible for this catastrophe. Give someone like Ambassador Stewart Stephenson a chance to run Jamaican football.

On the question of a new technical director, let us pursue someone like John Barnes and give him a five-year plan to turn around our football. He has the national origin, intellect, international experience and connection to move our football out of this unholy cellar.

I am, etc.,

HORACE LYNCH

Sharo681@aol.com.

Queens, New York