Three Exciting Young Americans in Europe

The flag-bearer for these American prospects in Europe is Julian Green. The electric Bayern Munich winger propelled himself into American Soccer lore with his extra-time goal against Belgium in the Round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup.

Aside from Green, there are a plethora of exciting, young American talents in Europe that could potentially lead the United States to glory. Here is a glimpse of just three of those talents.

Emerson Hyndman

Emerson Hyndman is an 18 year old central midfielder who plays for the recently relegated Fulham of the Championship. The Dallas native made his debut for Fulham just two weeks ago and got fantastic reviews across the board, many stated that he was the best player on the pitch (for Fulham). He is described as being extremely confident and comfortable on the ball and pick out passes at will. In his debut game, he complete 59 out 66 passes. The skill and composure he shows is exciting to both Fulham and USMNT fans alike.

Could this be the start of Fulhmerica 2.0?

Here is a great article about Hyndman: http://www.starsandstripesfc.com/usa-americans-abroad/2014/8/10/5988437/emerson-hyndman-fulham-video-debut

Update: Hyndman was called up by Jürgen Klinsmann for the US friendly against Czech Republic on Sept. 3rd

Lynden Gooch

Lynden Gooch is probably my favorite player in the United States youth system. He is currently with the Sunderland u-21 team, and has been known to score some fantastic goals (many of his goals can be seen here: http://americansoccernow.com/articles/lynden-gooch-18-is-a-highlight-reel-sensation.) The 18 year old may be one of the most versatile players in the youth national team setup as well, being able to play on either wing, striker, and even in the center of midfield. Having shown well for the Sunderland and United States youth teams, it's just a matter of time before Gooch makes it into the Sunderland first team and the senior national team. 

Can he make the Olympic team? 

Duane Holmes

Duane Holmes is a dual international who plays for Huddersfield Town in the Championship. He is the child of an American mother and an English Father. He is currently eligible to play for both England and the United States National team, although he has states pretty clearly that he wants to play for the United States, here is an excerpt from an article on www.mlssoccer.com: “I’m American, my kids will be American and their kids will be American,” he told MLSsoccer.com. “I could still take you to my old house [in Fort Benning, Ga]. I’ve got a USA kit from when I was 11 years old, and it still fits me now – it was that big when I got it! I’ve always had my heart set on [playing for] America, I’ve always told my mum and dad: I’m going to play for the US.” He can play as a number 8 and as a 10. He is certainly someone who has a lot of American fans excited. 

The mlssoccer.com article: http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/05/01/american-exports-huddersfield-towns-duane-holmes-dreams-rio-2016-olympic-glo
Update: Holmes was sent on loan to League 2 side Bury. 

These are just three of many other young Americans in Europe. I suggest you keep an eye on all three of these and many of the other players we have in Europe. 

Some other exciting young talents: Rubio Rubin (FC Utrecht), Bobby Wood (1860 Munich), Shawn Parker (FC Augsburg), Cody Cropper (Southampton), and Marc Pelosi (Liverpool FC). 

The Deluded Yank

Soccer, Football, Fútbol, Futebol, or Calcio? The truth is: I don't give a damn. To me, it's the beautiful game. The beautiful game that captivates millions of people around the world. The beautiful game that can take you from desolation all the way to elation in a mere second. The beautiful game that simply, makes us happy.

Soccer, specifically American soccer, is my greatest passion and I want to share my passion with anyone who is willing listen. I spend a lot of my time trying to convert soccer doubters into soccer lovers. I spend my weekends trying to convince my friends to come over to watch the national MLS game or trying to convince them to become an Everton fan. The thing is, it's working. Friends who had never watched the sport before are starting to follow the United States Men's National team full time, while also becoming (somewhat) avid MLS fans.

My goal for this blog is to provide you with my opinions on everything related to American Soccer. Of course, I'm not exactly an expert (especially when it comes to tactics), so you might disagree with what I say, but that is welcomed! I'm always looking to have a discussion with someone who is as fervent about the sport as I.

I tend to be an optimist when it comes to US Soccer, hence the name "The Deluded Yank."

My dream is to one day be the leader of the growth of soccer in this country, but for now sharing my passion through this blog will have to do.

-Nihal Kattar a.k.a The Deluded Yank