NYCFC's James Sands added to USMNT roster ahead of Jamaica qualifier

James Sands has been added to the US men’s national team's roster for their Concacaf World Cup Qualifier against Jamaica on Tuesday evening (5 pm ET | Paramount+, Universo), US Soccer has announced.

The versatile New York City FC homegrown player can feature as a center back or defensive midfielder. The 21-year-old joins the squad as Atlanta United defender Miles Robinson and Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie depart. Robinson was sent off for a second bookable offense and McKennie reached the yellow card limit during a 2-0 win over Mexico Friday night, leaving both suspended against the Reggae Boyz.

Sands has made seven appearances for the USMNT, all in 2021, after debuting against Haiti at the Concacaf Gold Cup. He appeared in all six matches during the competition and started in the 4-1 win against Honduras in World Cup Qualifying on Sept. 8 in San Pedro Sula.

Following their 2-0 win over El Tri, the USMNT are atop the Octagonal standings.