Teddy, Byron Earle appreciate the love

Appreciative. That is how two former local football stars, Jermaine 'Teddy' Johnson and Byron 'King' Earle, described being honoured at the annual 'Bring Back The Love' football matches, held at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex in Arnett Gardens on Labour Day, Monday.

Johnson, a skilful and exciting player, played much of his football in England for Bolton Wanderers, Oldham Athletic, Bradford City, and Sheffield Wednesday. He also played over 70 games for the senior Reggae Boyz, scoring 12 goals.

Johnson said that being honoured by Masters and Celebrities was humbling and a big compliment.

" I just want to enjoy football and go out and play the same way every time," he commented. "I am very humbled to receive this award from a person like 'Busy'.

"To be recognised by 'Busy' Campbell is a great honour. I have been working with him from a younger age. So for him to honour me is the biggest compliment, and I am very appreciative and so just have to give thanks," he said.

Earle, an Arnett Gardens hero, was a goalscorer extraordinaire in his time at Charlie Smith and Arnett. He also played briefly for the national team, and he said he felt good to be recognised for his contribution to football.

" I feel really appreciative of the fact that I have been honoured by people who have seen the work that I have put in, and I appreciate it, and I accept it humbly. I did the work and had my achievements, and to be recognised for that, I really appreciate this," he said.

The other honourees on the day include former FIFA referee Valdin Legister and Seaview Gardens Football Club president Earl Pinto.

Event organiser Clive 'Busy' Campbell said the event, which started in 1996, with Brian Lara as special guest player, is a game for the people, and that the most important thing was to make the honourees feel valued for their contributions.

"The most important thing for me is to respect the people who have been honoured. They have served us well in our football over the years, and sometimes we neglect them, but I say no.

"In modern-day football people are only thinking about money, but respect, that is the most important thing, and the four persons who were honoured really appreciated it," he said.

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com