LAS VEGAS – With the World Cup less than two weeks away, the country is starting to buzz about the United States chances in Brazil. One of the hot button topics surrounding the United States Men’s National Team is the inclusion of 18-year old Julian Green on the final 23-man roster.
Green’s professional soccer experience is extremely limited as his lone cap with the USMNT came late in the 2nd half of a friendly against Mexico. However, U.S. manager Jürgen Klinsmann opted to choose Green while leaving off American soccer legend Landon Donovan.
Since Green’s decision to commit his international soccer future to the United States, rumors have swirled about a possible deal between the young midfielder and Klinsmann. Supposedly, in return for Green’s commitment, Klinsmann would put him on the final roster.
Green has consistently denied the rumors when asked interviews.
Today on CBS Las Vegas’ Over and Under, Julian’s father Jerry spoke out against such accusations. “Anybody who makes the statement that ‘I know Julian was guaranteed this or this,’ is a liar,” Jerry Green said. “I’m just telling you the straight and simple. Unless they were in that room or were part of any of those conversations, they’re a liar.”
Jerry Green also recalled a specific phone conversation with Klinsmann in which it seemed to Green that the manager’s focus for Julian was more on the future.
“There’s a Wold Cup coming up, but I’m not focusing on this World Cup, I’m putting together the Olympic team in two years, I’d like to see him work hard to be a part of that.” Green says Klinsmann told him.
Klinsmann’s focus shifted quickly as he eventually did choose Julian Green for the final World Cup roster.
Green earned his second international cap coming on as a substitute in the 64th minute of the USMNT friendly with Turkey. If Green makes an appearance in a World Cup match in Brazil, he will become the youngest player enter a game for the United States at a World Cup.
You can listen to Jerry Green’s interview with Jason Pothier and Ken Boehlke in it’s entirety using the media player below.
Jerry Green on Over and Under
CBS Sports Radio 1140
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(Listen to Over and Under with Jason Pothier and Ken Boehlke on CBS Sports Radio 1140 every Sunday morning from 8 to 10. Follow the show on Twitter @OAU1140 and on Facebook.)