Wigan's FA Cup win puts Trinidadian into the history books

London, May 15 (IANS/CMC)

File Photo of Dennis Lawrence playing for Swansea City in 2008.

Former Trinidad and Tobago International Dennis Lawrence has become the first man from the Caribbean on the coaching staff of the English FA Cup Champions.

Lawrence is an assistant coach to Roberto Martinez, manager of Wigan Athletic, which activated the history making feat by producing the biggest FA Cup Final upset for 25 years when they beat Manchester City 1-0 over the weekend.

Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (TTFA) president Raymond Tim Kee and General Secretary Sheldon Phillips have described the achievement as praiseworthy, adding that Lawrence’s presence on the Wigan coaching staff was worthy of commendation.

“I know Dennis has worked hard to successfully transition to the next phase of his football career and am extremely happy for his most recent accomplishment as FA Cup Champion,” Phillips told TTFF Media.

“This along with the acquisition of his UEFA ‘A’ Badge is a model for our players to aspire.”

Lawrence, a former Swansea City, Wrexham and Defence Force player, will be remembered mostly for his winning goal versus Bahrain that pushed T&T through to the 2006 World Cup.

“It’s a fantastic achievement for Dennis and for Trinidad and Tobago. He continues to do everything with his country in mind also,” said his agent Mike Berry.

“He’s very proud to be able to carry his country’s name and he continues to strive for betterment. He did it as a player and the same continues now for him as a coach.”