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Former USA international Maurice Edu says Leeds midfielder Tyler Adams is the ‘main man’ for the USA at the 2022 World Cup.
As reported by HITC, Edu believes Adams is crucial to any success that the nation may have at the tournament in Qatar. Edu, who made 46 appearances for his country from 2007 to 2014, says the Leeds man is the hardest player to replace in the talented young squad.
Adams key to USA success
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The USA have not been in their best form going into the tournament. Gregg Berhalter’s side are without a win in their last three matches.
But many supporters remain confident. The country boasts many talented players, including Giovanni Reyna and Christian Pulisic.
In midfield, Juventus star Weston McKennie will be hugely important. But former Rangers man Edu believes Adams is the key to the nation performing well.
“I would say Tyler Adams is the main man,” said Edu. “When you look at the pool of players we have, I think Tyler is the one that is the hardest to replace.
“When he goes out with an injury or he’s not in camp, the level that we drop off to the next player that plays as a number six, is a little bit more significant than what happens with other players in that midfield.
“I think Weston McKennie brings an incredible appetite for the game. His endeavour, personality, work rate and energy are all things that are a big part of that USA midfield, but I think Tyler Adams is the one who is hardest to replace.”
USA midfielder starring for Leeds
Adams has been a rare standout in what has been a disappointing Premier League campaign for Leeds. They sit 18th in the table with just two wins from 11 matches.
Their USA midfielder has, however, been putting in some top displays. He played in the first 10 of those games, missing only the most recent match against Fulham through injury.
The 23-year-old arrived at Elland Road in the summer under plenty of pressure to perform. Such pressure came given he had to fill the boots of Kalvin Phillips, who made a move to Manchester City.
But Adams has more than stepped up to the challenge. He has understandably formed a strong bond with manager Jesse Marsch, with the pair having worked together at both New York Red Bulls and RB Leipzig.
Fellow USA man also shining for Leeds
Adams isn’t the only USA star performing well for Leeds this season. His compatriot Brenden Aaronson has also taken very well to Premier League football.
With Adams in a defensive role, Aaronson has been given the freedom to roam in attacking midfield. And Leeds supporters are evidently huge fans of his talent and work ethic.
The loyal supporters will, however, want to see more goals and assists from the 22-year-old. He’s managed just one of each in his 11 matches so far.
The USA will meet England, Wales and Iran in Group B in Qatar. The country will need the likes of Adams and Aaronson at their very best if they are to have a chance of making it to the knockout stages.
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