Jamaica's Fitzroy Simpson is convinced the Reggae Boyz will show the world how good they are and banish allegations that they are a joke team. Simpson believes they have been dismissed by other countries who remember the antics of the Jamaican bobsleigh team at the 1988 Winter Olympics.

Portsmouth midfielder Simpson claims his team are in the mood to pull off a World Cup shock if their opponents don't give them the respect they deserve.

"One of the worst things that could have happened for Jamaica was for them to enter a team in the bobsleigh event. They became the laughing stock of the world, and that stigma has been attached to us by people who are expecting the football team to be just as much of a joke. We are not just coming to the World Cup to make up the numbers. We are here to try and make progress in the tournament," Simpson added.

"Of course, we are under no illusions. It will be a big test for us but if our opposition treat us too lightly then they will be in for a big surprise.

"There are some talented players in our squad and we are all confident about our ability as a team. We are optimistic about making progress."

Simpson's optimism was echoed by his Jamaican and Portsmouth teammate Paul Hall, who has scored 11 goals in 22 games for his country.

Hall, 25, said: "For people in Jamaica, playing football represents the chance for them to get out of poverty and into a better life.

"Aside from the English players in the squad, who all want to do well, the native Jamaicans have double the reasons to succeed.

"They see playing in the World Cup as the chance to earn a better life for themselves. Good performances in the finals could get them moves abroad. So they are all eager to do well and to impress and that is bound to work in our favour."