On the Pitch
On the Pitch
On the Pitch
On the Pitch
On the Pitch
The 25-year-old from New Jersey loves coffee, golf and competing with his brother
What's your go-to breakfast?
I'd probably say eggs. Any kind of eggs, sunny side up or scrambled. I’m into beans now, too. So eggs and beans.
Tea or coffee?
Coffee for sure.
What's been keeping you busy these days?
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Any reason why?
Being able to fly like birds looks incredible. You see it in Spider-Man or Batman how they're flying over the city, and I think that's the coolest thing.
Electric toothbrush or manual?
Electric toothbrush.
What's the most interesting thing you've learned recently?
I like to read inspirational books. Recently I've been reading about Tareq Azim, and it's been a great book. I've learned a lot from it.
When you need advice, who do you call?
My parents are usually the first people I go to, besides my fiancée. My grandparents, too.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
My dad instilled in me at a young age that if I wanted to be the best, I had to outwork everybody else.
What's your favorite movie?
"Back to the Future."
Are you ordering out or cooking at home?
Cooking at home.
What's your go-to meal you’re cooking?
Pesto pasta with chicken. [My fiancée] Milana is usually the one making it because I'm not a very good cook.
What's one item you can't live without?
Probably my phone. Living in England, it's how I stay connected with my family and friends back home.
What's been your favorite part about living in Leeds?
The people are great. The banter is great. I'd also say the football world in general. It's a special place to be when it comes to playing soccer.
What's your favorite UK slang you've picked up?
"Ay up." It basically means "what's up?"
What do you miss most about the United States?
My family and friends. Being able to see them every day.
If you weren't a professional soccer player, what would you be doing?
I would like to be a professional golfer. I don't know if it'd be attainable, but hard work can get you anything.
Who would be on your dream scramble team from the national team?
Me and anybody against Joe [Scally] and Gio [Reyna]. I don't really care who my teammates are. I just like competing against those two.
What's one USMNT memory that's guaranteed to put a smile on your face?
My goal against Canada in World Cup qualifying. That's my best goal for the national team.
Smile with teeth or soft smile?
With teeth for sure.
Who's one person who really assisted you on your journey to becoming a professional soccer player?
There have been so many people who have helped me throughout my career, but if I had to pick one, I'd say my dad.
What was it like playing with your brother Paxten on the national team this year?
It was definitely one of the most memorable moments ever. Being able to share the field with him, walk out with him and stand together during the national anthem is something I'll never forget.
Who's more competitive, you or him?
Me. For sure me.
Who's the biggest gamer on the national team?
People would probably say me because I know a lot about technology, I’m good with that. I'd probably say myself.
What are three words your USMNT teammates would use to describe you?
Respectful, funny and loyal.
When this tournament is over and you look back, what do you hope people say about the way you played and carried yourself?
I hope they say I was someone who did whatever he could for the team and delivered special moments.
