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Despite setting a new record for the most goal contributions by a teenager in a single Major League Soccer season during Wednesday's 3–1 victory against the Chicago Fire, Cavan Sullivan admitted he found it hard to care because he felt he played "sort of terrible."
Possibly a casualty of the lofty standards he has set for himself over recent months, Sullivan was left frustrated after contributing just one assist in the win and was unable to take joy in the fact that he now had 21 goal contributions for the campaign.
With seven goals and 14 assists to his name, no teenager has ever been involved in more goals during a single MLS season than Sullivan, surpassing a record previously held by Diego Fagúndez since 2013.
"It feels like every week there's something new coming up for him," interim head coach Ryan Richter said with a laugh.
"I'm thrilled for him, and a major focus for him is to keep being decisive in matches, and when he's contributing goals and assists the way he has over this recent run, he's truly making the difference."
Most Goal Contributions in Single MLS Season by a Teenager
Player (Age at Start of Season) | Club | Goals and Assists |
|---|---|---|
Cavan Sullivan (16) | Philadelphia Union | 7 / 14 |
Diego Fagúndez (18) | New England Revolution | 13 / 7 |
Alphonso Davies (17) | Vancouver Whitecaps | 8 / 11 |
Sullivan Refuses to Get Swept Up in Excitement
It would be simple for Sullivan to get carried away with the attention surrounding him. The 17-year-old has been among the standout performers in MLS this season, has emerged as a key figure for the USMNT, and already has a move to Manchester City lined up as an 18th birthday gift.
Yet there will be no fanfare over this latest milestone for Sullivan, who was keen to address his own belief that his showing in the match did not warrant such recognition.
"I played sort of terrible tonight, so I'm not really focused on any records or stats like that, to be honest," Sullivan said.
"I'm happy with the win, but I've sort of got to look in the mirror and watch some film and see what I have to do better. I'm not really happy with my personal performance, but, like I said, great win."
That is precisely the kind of mindset USMNT and Philadelphia supporters want to see from Sullivan. His standards must continue to rise if the teenager is to fulfill his enormous potential and, while one must be careful not to place too much pressure on his young shoulders, this self-critical approach is the only way Sullivan can elevate his game to the next level.
Records are not the goal. They are simply a byproduct of consistent on-field excellence. What matters most is making a decisive impact and being the driving force behind wins for both the Union and the USMNT. So far, so good.
"His mentality is great," teammate Neil Pierre said. "Obviously, he thinks he can do better, but obviously we support him in any way possible."