By DAN KARELL
Highly-coveted German-American John Anthony Brooks could make his U.S. Men’s National Team debut as soon as next month.
According to a report in Germany, the Hertha Berlin defender has been selected by USMNT head coach Jurgen Klinsmann for next month’s friendly match against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarejevo. If Brooks plays, it would be his second debut in four days, as he is set to make his Bundesliga debut on August 10.
The 20-year-old centerback decided to use the summer to rest, turning the chance of playing for the U.S. Under-20 team at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup. Many thought that his decision to spurn the U-20 squad was a sign that he was still waiting for a chance within the German National Team setup, but if the veracity of the report is true, Brooks seems set to become a member of the USMNT.
Though he wouldn’t be be cap-tied with an appearance in the August 14 friendly, Klinsmann having a chance to see Brooks up close and speak with him will help the USMNT boss’ assessment of the young defender, and spending time with the USMNT could help Brooks make his own decision on whether to play for the U.S. or Germany.
What do you think of this news? Do you see Klinsmann playing Brooks against Bosnia and Herzegovina? Do you believe that Brooks should be in the USMNT centerback conversation?
Share your thoughts below.