Gilbert gets first TT start in Honduras clash

The utility man is likely to start at left-back for the Soca Warriors in San Pedro Sula

Joevin Jones is a doubt for Trinidad and Tobago's opening 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Honduras in San Pedro Sula on Thursday night.

The Seattle Sounders defender picked up an injury in training on Tuesday and is unlikely to be risked by head coach Terry Fenwick.

That could pave the way for Sheldon Bateau or Alvin Jones to start at left-back, but the most likely candidate to replace Jones is right-back Aubrey David.

Honduras will be without their captain for the match at the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano

It means that David could switch flanks and Daniel Cyrus could come into the team at right-back.

Cyrus has not played for the Soca Warriors since November 2019, but he has been in good form for his club, Al-Ettifaq, in Saudi Arabia.

Fenwick is likely to name an unchanged team from the one that beat Guyana 4-0 in a friendly in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday.

That means that Levi Garcia, Kevin Molino, and Ryan Telfer are likely to start in attack, with Khaleem Hyland and Hashim Arcia in midfield.

Honduras will be without their captain, Maynor Figueroa, for the match due to suspension.

The former Wigan Athletic defender was sent off in the 2-1 defeat to the United States in their opening qualifier last month.

In Figueroa's absence, Marcelo Pereira is likely to start at centre-back alongside Denil Maldonado.

Honduras will also be without Alberth Elis, who is injured, and Antony Lozano, who is suspended.

Fenwick is expecting a tough game against Honduras, who are ranked 67th in the FIFA World Rankings.

"Honduras is a very good team," Fenwick said.

"They have some very good players, and they are very well-organized."

"We know it will be a difficult game, but we are confident that we can get a result."

The match will be played at the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula on Thursday, March 25, at 8:30 pm local time.