The United States have relied on the performances of Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan for the last two matches due to the absence of the injured Tim Howard. United States manager Jurgen Klinsmann has said that he has so far been extremely pleased with the performances of his stand-in goalkeeper. Guzan kept two clean sheets for the team in the matches against Costa Rica and Mexico. Even though the United States have been on a poor run of form in recent months, the form of the goalkeeper delighted the manager.
Klinsmann has come under a lot of pressure in recent months due to the lack of progress. The team has managed just one win in the last five matches, and that too came against Costa Rica. As a result, they are currently fighting against the likes of Honduras in the table. Klinsmann has said that these two performances from Guzan is a clear indication that he should not be considered as a number two within the team. He has praised his communication skills and leadership abilities on the pitch. The 28-year-old has been a first team regular for this club Aston Villa this season.
He made just seven appearances in total last season, but he has been a first team regular under the management of Paul Lambert.
“Brad’s performance was huge. He was very vocal and had great communication, he gave us a lot of confidence throughout the last 10 days. He understood his situation and knew it was unique but he made the best of it. He made it clear that if anything happens to Tim right now, I’m more than a No. 2. That was the signal [sent]. There’s still hope that Tim is getting as healthy as possible. He’s a personality that we need, we need that leadership,” said Klinsmann.
