The first two, and probably two of the most difficult, matches of the Hexagonal round of World Cup qualification didn’t go the U.S. Men’s National Team’s way, but don’t worry, says Fabian Johnson.
Though the USMNT first two matches against Mexico in Columbus and at Costa Rica went poorly, and signaled the end of the Jurgen Klinsmann era for the team, USMNT and Borussia Monchengladbach star Fabian Johnson told FIFA.com he’s still bullish on the team’s chances of qualification. While recognizing the hole that the team has dug for themselves, Johnson states that the March games are the priority now and can help the USMNT get back on track for Russia 2018.
“I’m still very optimistic. There have only been two games, we still have another eight to go,” said Johnson. “First of all, I have to perform well. I need to keep working like I was when we were successful, and I can’t let myself be distracted. We’ve started badly with those two defeats, but we can’t let ourselves go crazy about it.”
Johnson also spoke out about the firing of the team’s former manager Klinsmann, and cautioned those expecting an immediate turnaround under new coach Bruce Arena.
“I thought it was a great shame,” Johnson stated. “We did well at the Copa America – nobody would have expected us to get that far. We also qualified for the Hexagonal [CONCACAF’s six-team final qualifying group for Russia 2018] pretty comfortably, although we started the campaign with two defeats. Unfortunately, I wasn’t consulted in the decision, but I think it happened pretty quickly. Those two games were the decisive factor.
“Our performances won’t change 100 per cent just because a new coach is coming in.”
I think on a day to day level, and at practices JK was probably a great guy to be around. A lot of the players seem somewhat shocked or dismayed at him getting the axe. FJ probably more so because of the timing of his play for the US.
For all of the flaws that I saw in Klinsmann, it always surprises me when players stick up for him.
Yea, that’s the element fans like us will never have access to or see first hand to accurately form an opinion.
Every now and again you’ll hear a disparaging assessment from a media member or even player, but that’s common in all locker rooms to have one or two players that don’t like the manager or the manager doesn’t like you and the player decides to “leak the truth” when it’s just their own personal experience.
I remember reading the “leaked” sources, I believe Sports Illustrated covered, turned out to be Hercules Gomez and Landon Donovan. Epitomizing taking information with a grain of salt.
I realize how far you go is the biggest thing, especially if you win it all, but I didn’t think the US was good at the start in Copa Am. I guess I am rooting for the same here, but it didn’t surprise me the US struggled in the qualifying. I don’t think I am alone.
Apparently you are.
Rob we are full. Stop bringing so much to the table.
I absolutely love that when I see a “Rob” comment now I fully expect to see his shadow “wham” scolding him to return under the bridge.
Mexico at Azteca wouldn’t be considered “more difficult”, than Mexico in Ohio normally would it?
Most difficult hex games
1. At Mexico
2. At Costa Rica
3. Vs Mexico
4. At Honduras
5. Vs Costa Rica
6. At Panama
7. Vs Honduras
8. Vs Panama
9. At TT
10. Vs TT
Agreed? If so Nov included 2 of the hardest 3 games
Also are players consulted in coaching changes? I would guess the captain at times but how many USMNT players where before FJ was not?
I would consider FabJohnsons comment about not being consulted as a bit of sarcasm. Associated with his comment,”Our performance wont change 100% because a new coach is coming in” Players play and coaches coach. Coaches get replaced more often then the players and Johnson knows he is a valuable player