United States men's hero Tyler Adams has revealed the "tough discussion" he had with Gregg Berhalter after their Nations League final win over Mexico.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Adams scores stunner as USMNT win Nations LeagueBut midfielder hooked at half-timeOpens up on "tough discussion" with BerhalterWHAT HAPPENED?
The USMNT midfielder was handed his first start since the 2022 World Cup and repaid Berhalter's faith almost immediately, scoring a long-range screamer to put his side 1-0 up in their CONCACAF Nations League final on Sunday. But minutes after scoring, at half-time, Adams was substituted by his manager as his minutes continue to be managed. The Bournemouth man revealed his frustrations at the "disappointing" call but acknowledged the "long-term plan" by Berhalter and Co.
AdvertisementUSA Today Sports WHAT ADAMS SAID
The 25-year-old told CBS Sports after the 2-0 win: "I told him [Berhalter] I wanted to play 120 [minutes] yesterday. So to come out at halftime was obviously disappointing. Especially after scoring a goal. I understand we have to be smart for the long-term plan. It’s not just to play minutes now, it’s to play in the Copa America, another World and so on. I still have a long career ahead of me, I want to be smart in what I’m doing but it was a tough discussion."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Indeed, Sunday's final was just Adams' second match in a USMNT shirt since the tournament in Qatar, and only his fourth senior appearance all season amid his ongoing hamstring troubles. In the semi-final against Jamaica, he was substituted in extra time having already been brought on in the second half, showing just how cautious the USMNT coaching staff are being with his rehabilitation. They have the Copa America to attend to in just a few months' time and, if his stunning goal is anything to go by, they will want Adams to play as much of that tournament as possible.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR ADAMS?
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola will likely also be pleased with Adams' performance, as well as his restricted minutes, as he turns to the USMNT star going into the business end of the Premier League season. The Cherries take on Everton in their next match on Saturday, where Adams will no doubt hope to feature in some capacity.