Unbeknownst to him, while protecting CF Montreal’s 0-0 draw against Real Salt Lake at Saputo Stadium, Joel Waterman’s cell phone vibrated.

It was a message from Jesse Marsch, the Canada coach. He told him some very special news: the defender was finally invited to participate in the Copa América with the maple leaf.

But Waterman had no idea, too busy protecting the Montreal zone from attackers from the second best offense in MLS.

It was when he returned to the locker room that he was able to read the text. And it was when he arrived in front of the media at a press conference that he revealed its content to us.

“Jesse told me I made the team, so I’m heading to the Copa tomorrow,” he says, smiling. I think I can say that. It feels good ! I think they didn’t want to tell me before the meeting, in case I got too excited. »

According to journalist Ben Steiner, Waterman replaces Junior Hoilett in the 26-player squad. The striker was reportedly injured in training today.

“I heard maybe something was happening today, but I wasn’t sure,” Waterman says. So I let it go, and then I got confirmation. It’s good to know that my work was noticed, and that I was next in line. I am always grateful for the chance to represent my country. »

From the conference room, we heard shouts emanating from the locker room as we waited for the members of the Bleu-blanc-noir in conference. Was that to congratulate you, Joel? Yes, but not only that, he replies.

“There were guys who were back from injury, which was great to see. Guys like Mason and Mati, who made a difference. […] Victor [Wanyama] had a boy, so that’s amazing. I don’t know if I’m supposed to share that with you! And the third thing was mine.”

When we met Jesse Marsch in Bordeaux last week, we asked him if Sirois – who remains in Montreal – and Waterman were far from the national team. The coach told us that the catastrophic month of May at the CFM had been the cause of their initial exclusion, after their recalls in March. But the recent performances of both players were promising. This confirms that these were not empty words.

“We had a good conversation,” confirms the defender. I understand that you can’t choose everyone. […] It wasn’t the first time I received a “no” in my career. I always bring it back to training, because it comes down to what I demonstrate on the field. So to have this chance, it’s a blessing, and I’m grateful for it. »