It’s widely perceived that a younger US men’s national team generation is here, but a tried and true veteran isn’t going anywhere quite yet.
Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan, owner of 64 caps, reaffirmed his commitment to the program in an interview with FOX Soccer host Rob Stone.
“I’ve always said that being able to represent your country is the highest honor, and as long as I’m fit and able, I’ll put myself forward and available for selection,” Guzan said in straightforward fashion.
Guzan, 35, moved back to MLS midway through the 2017 season and has been the Five Stripes’ starter ever since, winning three trophies in the process. A former Chivas USA standout, Guzan also spent a decade in England playing for Aston Villa, Hull City and Middlesborough.
To stay firmly in USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter’s plans, Guzan knows strong club form will strengthen his case. It’ll be necessary, too, with former Columbus Crew star Zack Steffen appearing to have the No. 1 spot on lock and NYCFC goalkeeper Sean Johnson also in contention.
“That decision is up to the manager,” Guzan began, “so I need to make sure that I worry about myself at a club level, making sure that my performances first and foremost warrant a call-up and then, two, when given the opportunity to try and perform as best as you can. For me, I’ve always said that I want to be involved as long as the manager is willing to select me.”
The next USMNT opportunity for Guzan remains in flux as the COVID-19 pandemic reshapes the soccer world. Whenever it arrives, it’d be his first cap since their Concacaf Nations League Group A games last November.
