Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke was appointed head coach of the Trinidad and Tobago national team on Friday, ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Just two days before his 53rd birthday, Yorke has been given the task of leading the Soca Warriors into a World Cup that will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada in the region.

“The opportunity to work with this talented, close-knit group of players is something I look forward to,” Yorke said in a statement released by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association.

“Having helped Trinidad and Tobago reach the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2000, captained the team at the 2006 World Cup, and served as assistant manager, my love and commitment to my national team is well documented,” he continued.

He added, “As a player, I experienced some incredible moments in a Trinidad and Tobago shirt. With this squad, I hope we can achieve more as I step into the role of head coach.”

Yorke captained the Trinidad and Tobago squad at the 2006 World Cup, where they exited in the group stage. Besides his celebrated 1998-2002 spell with Manchester United—which included the 1999 treble—he also played for Aston Villa, Birmingham City, Sunderland, Blackburn Rovers, and Sydney FC.

Yorke most recently served as head coach for Australian side Macarthur FC for six months, concluding his tenure in January 2023.

“Dwight’s experience, leadership, and commitment to the red, white, and black are exactly what we need to inspire our players and our nation,” said association president Kieron Edwards.