The Gambia’s head coach, Johnathan McKinstry, has expressed strong belief in his team’s development and future prospects, insisting that the Scorpions are on the right path despite tough opposition in high-level matches.

Speaking after the clash with Senegal, McKinstry emphasised that playing stronger teams is a deliberate strategy to accelerate the growth of his youthful squad.

“We learn from these types of games. It would be easy for us to play smaller countries and score three or four goals, but these experiences are what these young players need to rise to the next level,” he said.

The coach highlighted that such competitive fixtures are crucial in shaping a team that is still relatively new but filled with promise and potential.

Looking ahead, McKinstry revealed optimism about the return of home advantage, noting that the national team could soon welcome fans back on Gambian soil.

“We’re very hopeful the home stadium will be ready, hopefully for June but definitely for the qualifiers in September,” he stated.

With the next Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on the horizon, the coach acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained confident in his squad’s ability to deliver.

“We know it’s going to be difficult and we’ll face tough opponents, but we’ve given 27 or 28 debuts in the last 18 months. It’s a very new team,” he added.

McKinstry concluded with a bold statement of intent, underlining his belief in the quality within the squad.

“The quality in the team is too much for us not to go to AFCON, and not just turn up but also put in performances and hopefully go deep in the tournament.”

By Ebrima KB Sonko