English-born defender Curtis Davies has been selected by the Sierra Leone National Team coach, Amidu Karim, to join the squad for two critical World Cup Qualifying matches against Djibouti and Burkina Faso. 

Davies expressed his pride and excitement about the selection on his Instagram page, stating, “Proud to have been included in the Sierra Leone squad for the World Cup Qualifiers against Djibouti and Burkina Faso.”

Born in Leytonstone, United Kingdom, Davies initially represented England, making three appearances for the England U-21 squad between 2006 and 2007. However, in 2023, he switched his international allegiance to Sierra Leone, his father’s birthplace, debuting in a friendly match against Somalia in Morocco. Reflecting on this decision, Davies said, “I thought the opportunity to represent the country of my father’s birth had passed, but I feel very proud and humbled to have received the call.”

Currently playing for Cheltenham Town, the 39-year-old defender had a significant presence in the 2023/24 season, making over 30 appearances and scoring once. Despite Cheltenham's relegation to the English Football League (EFL) Two after finishing 21st in EFL League One, Davies' performance remained noteworthy.

Throughout his career, Davies has accumulated extensive experience, with notable stints at Derby County, Hull City, and Birmingham City. He recorded 164 appearances for Derby County between 2017 and 2023, 123 appearances for Hull City from 2013 to 2017, and 89 appearances for Birmingham City between 2011 and 2013. Pundits believe his experience and leadership will greatly benefit the younger players on the Sierra Leone national team.

The Leone Stars are currently in 4th place in their group with one point from two matches. While Sierra Leone has never qualified for the World Cup finals, recent matches against Egypt and Ethiopia have instilled hope among the team's loyal fans. The inclusion of an experienced player like Davies is seen as a positive step toward enhancing the squad's performance in the upcoming qualifiers.