Legend ‘Tiger’ Phillips demands systemic overhaul of T&T’s football

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad:

In a blistering and sobering assessment of Trinidad and Tobago football, legendary former technical director and iconic goalkeeper Lincoln "Tiger" Phillips has declared the nation's recent World Cup qualifying failure "no big surprise", painting a picture of a system in profound crisis.

Speaking exclusively to Andre Errol Baptiste on ISports on i95.5 FM on Saturday, the 1970s star, widely regarded as one of the nation's finest goalkeepers, did not mince words.

He cited a catastrophic failure in coaching development, poor administration, and a lack of structured planning as reasons why T&T has been left behind.

"A lot of countries are catching up with us. They've caught up with us. They've gone past us," Phillips stated. "They've studied the game. They've listened to people. And we're there in Trinidad just wandering about, wondering about this, going from here to here. Not really doing much planning and preparation."

Phillips expressed deep disappointment with the final qualifying campaign but placed the blame squarely on systemic failures that have festered for years. His prognosis for the future under the current administration is "bleak" if radical changes are not implemented.

While voicing support for head coach Dwight Yorke, Phillips was clear that the former Manchester United star cannot succeed alone.

"I feel that he can do a lot for football, but if we don't take care of our administration first, then we're just wasting a lot of time," he cautioned.

He emphasised that Yorke needs help and, most critically, that sustainable funding must be found, stating bluntly, "without that there is no advancement".

The solution, he says, is not a quick fix like the recently debated "Grandparents Law" for player eligibility. He called it insufficient, arguing that true development must be homegrown.

Phillips issued a clarion call for a complete overhaul, starting at the youth level.

"I would suggest that we start a youth development programme from under-10s, throughout the country. This programme must be year-round. Soccer is no longer a seasonal sport."

Ultimately, Phillips believes the talent and expertise exist within Trinidad and Tobago to revive the sport, but only if a fundamental shift occurs.

He stressed that all stakeholders must set aside differences and work collectively.

"There are persons in TT that can be used to assist the football," he said. "But all stakeholders have to get on board and work together."

-CMC