Hall honoured by Reggae Boyz call-up, eager for potential debut

New Reggae Boyz defender Denzell Hall says receiving his first invitation to represent Jamaica was a proud moment for both himself and his family, particularly his father, who was born and raised on the island.

Hall, who grew up in the Netherlands before moving to England, is currently in camp with the senior men’s national team and is hoping to make his debut during the upcoming international window.

Speaking in an interview with JFF media, the defender revealed that his Jamaican heritage comes through his father and admitted that he did not spend much time on the island while growing up.

“My father was born in Jamaica,” Hall said. “He was born and grew up there. That’s where it all started.”

Unlike many overseas-based players with Jamaican roots, Hall said he did not visit Jamaica until three years ago.

“To be honest, not very often. I only came here about three years ago. That was the first time I came here with my girlfriend, so I didn’t come here as often as I wanted to.”

The call-up, however, is one that has been discussed within the family for years.

“Of course, I was very happy,” Hall said.

“I think I’ve been talking to my family about it for a long time. My father always respected it when you get an invitation, and this time I finally got it, so, of course, I was very happy.”

Hall said he has already learned a little about Jamaican football culture through compatriot Brandon Cooper, with whom he has played at club level, while also following the Reggae Boyz at regional tournaments.

The defender believes that settling into the Jamaican squad has been relatively straightforward after a busy season in England.

“I think it’s pretty good. Last season I played a lot of matches. I don’t think it’s too difficult to adapt because of the team. They make me feel really accepted, and they like me there, so it’s very easy to get into the team.”

The 20-year-old also credited Dutch club VVV-Venlo, where he spent 15 years from the age of five, for helping to shape him into the player he is today.

“I’ve been there for 15 years, since I was five years old,” he said. “I started there and learned all the basics. Over the years they’ve developed me into the player I am now.”

Although he encountered few Jamaicans while growing up in the Netherlands, Hall said moving to England exposed him to more people with ties to the Caribbean nation.

Looking ahead, the prospect of wearing the black, green, and gold for the first time is one he does not take lightly.

“It would definitely be a great achievement and something I’m very grateful for because I think it’s a great honour to represent your country, and I’m looking forward to it.”

Describing his style of play, Hall said supporters can expect a tough-tackling defender who is equally willing to contribute in attack.

“I always say that I’m a defensive player, so I like to tackle and tackle hard,” he said.

“On the other hand, I also like to assist. I try to score goals or assist and help the team when controlling the ball.”

Should he get the opportunity this weekend, Hall will become the latest overseas-born player to pull on the Reggae Boyz jersey, fulfilling a long-held ambition and a dream cherished by his Jamaican family.