Tayvon Gray made his first start with Jamaica in the win over Grenada

If there is one New York City FC player who has grown leaps and bounds over the last few years, then it is Tayvon Gray. The right-back has predominantly started throughout 2023 and has proven to be one of the stronger defenders in the league.

Last month, Gray was called up to represent Jamaica for the first time. After impressing in his first camp and after solid performances with NYCFC, he was called up again.

Tayvon Gray started in Jamaica's 4-1 win

On Thursday, the Homegrown player earned his first start with the Jamaica National Football Team. The national team faced Grenada in the CONCACAF Nations League. He played the first half before being substituted out at halftime. It is unknown whether that was the original plan, a tactical chance, or due to his performance. Regardless of the reason, he still started for the national team. That is a fantastic accomplishment.

In the end, the Reggae Boyz came out on top by beating Grenada, 4-1. The win keeps Jamaica at the top of their group with seven points. Additionally, they have secured a spot in the quarterfinals with one match to go.

During the game, Gray had a decent performance. Defensively, he was solid. He had one out of one successful tackles. He had one interception and three recoveries. Compared to the rest of his team, FOTMOB provided the defender with an average rating. He received a 6.4, while most of his fellow starters had a 7.0 rating or higher. Notably, the player who replaced him, Dexter Lembikisa, had a rating of 6.1.

Likely, Gray is adjusting to life as a national team player. Sometimes, new faces start their national team journeys with a bang, while others take a few games to grow into the team.

The New York City FC player has a lot to be proud of. Many players do not get the opportunity to play for a national team. Gray will be someone to watch to see whether he can turn into the starting right-back for Jamaica.