When Rumarn Burrell got the message, he had to read it twice. A call-up to the Reggae Boyz camp was not just a career milestone, but it was the culmination of a lifelong connection, generations deep, and a dream nurtured by talent, persistence, and identity.
Now, the 24-year-old attacker stands on the verge of his international debut for Jamaica, brimming with optimism as the Boyz gear up for their Unity Cup opener against Caribbean rivals Trinidad and Tobago on Tuesday at 1:45 pm Jamaica time.
The tournament, which also features African heavyweights Ghana and Nigeria, is being staged at the GTECH Community Stadium, home of Premier League side Brentford FC, offering a prestigious platform for Burrell to make his mark.
“It was a great feeling. When the manager messaged me, at first I couldn't believe it, to be honest, but you know, I did really well at the end of the season. So I felt like I did kind of earn this kind of opportunity. So I was really happy,” Burrell said.
Born in Birmingham, England, Burrell’s Jamaican ties run deep. His grandparents on both sides were born in the island, and his connection to the country goes back to his earliest steps — literally.
“When I was one, I actually took my first steps on one of the beaches in Jamaica. That's one of the good stories that I've got in my life. I've been back a few times with my family since then, so it's been really good,” he shared.
Burrell’s journey to this point has been forged in the demanding tiers of British football. After a prolific spell in the Scottish Championship last year, where he netted 23 goals, Burrell moved to English League One side Burton Albion. While the season had its share of challenges, the forward ended the campaign on a high, as he scored 11 goals and showcased the kind of form that drew the attention of Jamaica’s coaching staff.
“That (23 goals in Scotland) was a really good starting point to where I wanted to get to. The start of the season at Burton wasn’t the greatest, but it finished really well. I’m just looking to carry that form into the national team and make an impact for Jamaica as well,” Burrell declared.
Burrell pointed out that the first day in camp with the Steve McClaren-coached side was everything Burrell had hoped for — a warm welcome, a tight-knit group, and a brand of football that suits his dynamic style.
“It’s a real family environment here. I gelled well with the boys and all the staff, and I enjoyed the session. I’m liking the way that we play football,” he noted.
Burrell brings more than just goal-scoring prowess. His movement off the ball, quick feet, and attacking flair are qualities the Reggae Boyz will need as they look to secure bragging rights over regional rivals Trinidad and Tobago and potentially face either Ghana or Nigeria in Saturday’s final.
And while this Unity Cup marks only the beginning of his international chapter, Burrell’s vision is crystal clear.
“I’m looking forward to the game against Trini, and then I think we'll also get to the final. Wherever this opportunity takes me, I just hope to do well and score goals,” Burrell ended.