Vernan

LONDON, England:

Always moving with a quick step and very businesslike posture, Eric Vernan has quickly established himself as a quality player in dual roles, attacking and defending, as he speeds up and down the right flank of Jamaica's team.

The Reggae Boy will have that quality tested once more when he joins United States Major League outfit DC United for a trial at a three-week training camp in Florida, starting February 18.

The Digicel Caribbean Championships' Most Valuable Player has been requested to join the camp by DC United, who have an intention to sign and he is looking forward to the challenge.

Professional level

"I feel good to know that I'm moving to another level, a professional level," the 21-year-old Vernan told The Gleaner in London, following Jamaica's 0-0 draw against Nigeria on Wednesday.

"It's not surprising," he says of the opportunity. "After that performance in the Digicel Caribbean Championship I don't find it surprising, I've been looking forward to it.

"Football is my job, I've to be professional and step up to the job."

As one who is used to success, the former national Under-20 player who has made the quick transition to the senior team, says that sort of ethic was influenced by his mother, Glasmine Levene, who now lives in the United States.

"From I was going to school she said I'm to make sure I've the right attitude. At this point she's in New York, but when I'm playing she calls and tells me to do my best and protect myself from injuries."

Many title successes

Apart the Digicel Caribbean Championship, he has been an influential member in the title successes last year of Premier League and Under-21 champion team Portmore United, Glenmuir High School's 2004 Triple Crown team and also captained his school, Green Park Primary, to victory in Under-15 competition.

His national team captain, Tyrone Marshall, is an 11-year MLS veteran and has some advice for Vernan.

Asked about the little dynamo's chances, Marshall said: "It's a tough call. It all depends on how he responds to the trial and how he goes there and perform. If he goes in there timid and not take it by the horns, it's going to be tough. You've to come in and perform right off the bat."

Given his serious-looking posture and approach, by his own admission Vernan could well be headed to the professional level.