Oakland Roots SC’s Neveal Hackshaw and San Antonio FC’s Shannon Gomez have been selected in Trinidad and Tobago’s squad to face Saudi Arabia in an international exhibition at the Al Shabab Club Stadium in Riyadh on Tuesday evening.

The squad is the first selected by new Trinidad and Tobago Head Coach Dwight Yorke, who was appointed in early November. The side is aiming to use the contest as preparation ahead of a Gold Cup Qualifying contest next March against Cuba.

“My exciting Trinidad and Tobago squad is motivated to return to the World Cup, 20 years after I was proud to captain my country at the tournament in 2006,” said Yorke. “This game will be the first step in a journey we take together with players who have given great service as others work for the opportunity to join us along the way.

“This is an excellent opportunity to assess the team’s readiness and implement our strategies ahead of a critical year. We are focused on building cohesion and ensuring we are fully prepared for the challenges ahead, starting with the Gold Cup playoff.”

Hackshaw brings experience to the Soca Warriors squad after recently completing his second season in Oakland. The versatile defender and central midfielder has made 219 appearances across the Championship’s regular season and playoffs, having previously played for the Charleston Battery and Indy Eleven. The 29-year-old has also recorded 39 appearances for Trinidad and Tobago, scoring two goals and three assists.

Gomez is set to return to San Antonio for his fourth season at the club after signing a new contract this offseason. The 28-year-old has made 177 appearances in the Championship across the regular season and playoffs, having previously appeared for Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC and Sacramento Republic FC before he helped SAFC win the 2022 USL Championship title. Gomez has made 17 appearances previously for Trinidad and Tobago.