Danavon Thompson is hoping to fulfil his dream of playing for Bermuda after receiving his first international call-up for World Cup qualifying matches against Curaçao and Trinidad next week.

The X-Roads Warriors striker is among a host of new players selected by head coach Michael Findlay with Bermuda’s slim chances of making it to the 2026 World Cup extinguished after they suffered a heavy defeat away to Jamaica last month.

Thompson has been on cloud nine since receiving the notification of his selection and is determined to take the opportunity to prove himself at this level.

“Bermuda finally gets to see Danavon Thompson and I just want to show Bermuda that I belong,” he told The Royal Gazette.

“My first cap means everything to me and I don’t know of anyone who deserves this opportunity more than me.

“I just want to be listed as one of the greatest goalscorers this country has ever seen and feel I’m on the right path. I always wanted to be in the conversation with Nahki Wells, Kyle Lightbourne and Antwan Russell. These are guys who I rate highly and look up to.

“If I get an international goal it’s done. My dream is to touch the onion bag and I’ve got two games to do so. I’m finally ready and really fired up.”

The 31-year-old is thrilled to be a part of Findlay’s squad, which he feels has a bright future.

“I’m enjoying the way Michael Findlay has got Bermuda moving into the right direction with final-round qualification,” he said. “It’s very big for Bermuda and is something I’m so happy to be a part of.”

Thompson, who has scored four goals for X-Roads this season, is humbled by the overwhelming support he has received after his inclusion was announced.

“I never realised how many fans believe in me and how many people have gotten emotional over this,” he said. “People have cried real tears for my selection and my phone would not stop ringing

“The word of the week is ‘finally’ because that’s the first word a lot of people have said to me about this. I feel safe with the country backing me and it puts me at ease. With the belief others have in me, I play with the best of my ability and I don’t see why I wouldn’t do well.

“I’m playing for my children, my fans, my country and for everyone who believed in me when I doubted myself. These games are the biggest of my life and mean everything.”

The Gombey Warriors remain rooted at the bottom of group B with no points and will play Curaçao at the Flora Duffy Stadium on Thursday at 8pm before travelling to take on Trinidad on November 18.

The home match will be the last for Bermuda stalwart Reggie Lambe, who has announced his intention to retire from international football at the end of the World Cup qualifying campaign.