The XTRA: Top 5 Emerging USMNT Talents
Kevin Egan takes a look at five names from the new generation of talent that has emerged following the USMNT's failure to qualify for the World Cup.
The past twelve months have been a tumultuous time for the USMNT.
But from the darkness of failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup some light is beginning to emerge.
We take a look at five names to watch out for as the US men's national team sets out to replace the old guard with new blood and fresh legs.
Zack Steffen
In a short space of time, the 23-year-old goalkeeper has become a regular feature on the national team roster. With five caps already under his belt, the Columbus Crew shot-stopper is poised to become the first name on the team sheet for many years to come.
Aaron Long
A diamond in the rough, the defender has come a long way (no pun intended) since being drafted 36th overall out of college by the Portland Timbers, he is now a fixture in the MLS Supporters' Shield-chasing New York Red Bulls. Long got his first call-up for the Stars and Stripes last month for the friendly games against Brazil and Mexico, but has yet to make his international debut.
Josh Sargent
Still only 18, Sargent clinched a move to Bundesliga outfit Werder Bremen after an impressive run of goal scoring form with the German club's reserve side as well as with the national side's youth ranks. Such is Sargent's prowess in front of goal, he even scored on his international debut, in a 3-0 win over Bolivia earlier this year.
Weston McKennie
Emerging from the disaster that was failing to qualify for the World Cup was 19-year-old Weston McKennie. The Schalke 04 man has played six times under Dave Sarachan and recently became the eighth US player to score in the Champions League.
Timothy Weah
The son of former Ballon d'Or and current Liberian president George Weah, Timothy doesn't seem to be fazed by the name on his shirt. The 18-year-old made his US senior debut in March and found the back of the net in PSG's Trophee de Champions win not to mention in the Ligue 1 champions' opening game of the season.