Semmy intends to join squad

PAPUA New Guinea international Tommy Semmy says he is yet to find out whether he can return to the country to prepare with the national team for the Fifa World Cup regional qualifiers in Doha, Qatar.
The striker told The National yesterday that he was looking at travelling to Port Moresby early next month, but he would first have to consult his agent on Coronavirus (Covid-19) travel restrictions.
The 27-year-old is undergoing pre-season training with Victorian-based Altona Magic after signing a one-year deal last year for the upcoming season in Australia’s second-tier football competition.
“Coming to Port Moresby to join the squad here to train is an option, but first I have to be sure that the trip won’t affect my travel back to Australia after training or playing,” Semmy said.
“I have to talk to my travel agent and find out about the travel restrictions.
“I’ll have to find out how long the training camp will be for, before I make any plans to travel.
“I don’t want to just come to PNG then end up being stuck here because of Covid-19 restrictions.
“I’m also training here (in Australia) so whatever happens, maybe I’ll just join the national squad in Doha.”
Semmy, from East Sepik but regards himself as a Morobean after being born and raised in Wau, Bulolo, said he had been away from PNG for four years. I haven’t seen my family back in Bulolo for the last four years,” he said.
“I’ve just been travelling and living in Australia and I miss them so I hope I can come home.
“But I’m also training with Altona for the new season, which kicks off next month, so I’ll have to weigh things up first and make a decision.”