FIFA U-17 World Cup: USA star Josh Sargent focused on team, not Golden Boot award

Navi Mumbai: In the only country that refers to football as ‘soccer’, the USA still remains one of the major powerhouses in the sport. They might not boast of rich history in international football but have produced world class talents over the years.

With the rise of the Major League Soccer, the country has been producing sparkling talents like never before. The newest among them is Josh Sargent, who has already being dubbed as the next Christian Pulisic.

Such is his talent, that Bundesliga club Werder Bremen have already snapped up his services, set to activate in 2018. Having already lit the FIFA U-17 World Cup, Sargent spoke to Deccan Chronicle in an exclusive chat.

“Werder Bremen is a great club and it will be a great opportunity to play for them. You see more Americans being able to play in the Bundesliga, so I’m looking forward to playing for them,” Sargent remarked with a smile.

The German outfit came calling for the 17-year-old’s services after he made headlines last year during the U-20 World Cup in South Korea, where he emerged as the second highest goal scorer.

“The U-20 is a bit difficult because the players are bigger, faster, stronger. I featured for both teams in the World Cup, so it’s the best teams in the world and you are going to have competition,” the wonderkid added.

The 6ft striker previously stated that bagging the Golden Boot award was his sole aim, but is now only focused on helping the team.

“I'm trying to be the best leader I can. I want to take my experience from the U-20s to this team and go as far as we can. The golden boot is really not in my mind. All I’m trying to do is help the team and do the best we can to win games,” he added.

The dynamic forward feels that the future of the country is in safe hands despite the senior team failing to secure qualification for the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup.

“I think our generation is looking very good right now but we need to progress. And we hope more players get into the senior team. A lot of guys were upset after the senior team bowed out, but we got to do our best and keep our heads up. We are still advancing, it’s a quick turnaround but we will be ready for the knockouts, “ Sargent signed off.

Having registered only one goal so far, the Missouri-born player will aim to prove his big match potential when they lock horns with Paraguay in the round of 16 on Monday.