US youth talents press their case ahead of November fixtures
Four friendly wins gave Mauricio Pochettino an extended look at emerging players, but their November roles remain undecided.
The United States men’s national team won all four friendlies played in late September and early October, closing the run with a 1–0 victory over Canada. The matches offered coach Mauricio Pochettino a chance to assess young players before the Concacaf Nations League quarter-finals resume in November.
Teenagers scored in each match. Julian Hall scored in his first three international appearances, while Justin Ellis netted twice, including the winner against Canada.
Cole Campbell made his senior debut as a second-half substitute against Canada. The 20-year-old was the 13th previously uncapped invitee to debut for the United States during the window.
Some young players had been expected to return to the U-23 or U-20 teams in November. Their performances could change those plans, but no final selection decisions were reported.
Fox Sports reported that Pochettino said giving young players substantial minutes had been part of his plan, even before striker Ricardo Pepi was injured while playing for PSV Eindhoven ahead of joining the national team.
