Former Walsall defender Rico Henry has been called up by Jamaica manager Steve McClaren for his sides' upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Trinidad & Tobago and Curaçao.Marking what would be his first call-up for the Reggae Boyz, Henry, a former England youth international, recently switched allegiance to Jamaica as he looks to make an impact on the world stage.
Swapping the Saddlers to the Bees in the summer of 2016, Rico's initial transfer agreement saw Walsall become eligible for various add-ons, such as a fee if and when the former Cadbury Athletic defender made an appearance in the Premier League, a feat he achieved in August 2021.
Another clause believed to be part of his move to Griffin Park would see Walsall pick up more money if Rico were to make an international appearance, something he could be about to do, subject to receiving a Jamaican passport and securing international clearance.
However, there is some speculation whether the clause in question would be activated following an international appearance for any nation, or specifically for England, the country he hoped to represent when the deal was made.
Neither Walsall nor Brentford have ever revealed the entire agreement, although Saddlers co-chairman Leigh Pomlett has called the deal the biggest in the history of the club, in terms of the total transfer fee received, as well as potential add-ons and future clauses.
It appears we'll have to wait and see as to whether the Saddlers will be on the receiving end of some much-needed funds, but a potential cash injection could really boost the team whether they're able to make the leap to League One at the end of the season or not.
Main image: Copyright Brentford FC.