Pochettino Faces Mounting Injury Crisis as Ecuador Showdown Looms
US national team coach Mauricio Pochettino has revealed that Christian Pulisic and Antonee Robinson are among several players who will undergo late fitness evaluations before Friday's international friendly versus Ecuador.
Pochettino continues working to elevate the USMNT's performance level following their Gold Cup final loss to Mexico, which dampened the momentum from a five-match winning run, though September's international window concluded positively with an impressive triumph over Japan.
The team will face Ecuador and Australia during October's fixtures, but Pochettino remains uncertain about the availability of several key squad members due to potential injury concerns.
Prior to Friday's match against Ecuador, Pochettino revealed that AC Milan star Pulisic was absent from the team's final training session, along with Fulham left-back Robinson and América attacking midfielder Alejandro Zendejas.
"We must evaluate tomorrow whether they will be fit to participate," Pochettino acknowledged.
Pulisic appeared upbeat during his media appearance earlier and made no reference to any physical issues when discussing the forthcoming matches.
"We aim to gauge our team's current level and maintain positive momentum as we approach the summer period," Pulisic explained.
"I believe we're adapting well. Now it's about stringing together strong performances consecutively. Following last camp's positive results, this presents an excellent chance."
Pulisic: Consistency Behind Hot Start to New Season
Pulisic's impact on the USMNT is well-established, but the AC Milan attacker joins October's camp in exceptional form following six goals and two assists across just eight appearances for the Italian club this campaign.
"I put in tremendous effort during the summer," Pulisic emphasized. "I didn't simply rest. I was determined to ensure my physical condition was optimal entering the season, aiming for a powerful start, and I dedicated myself completely.
"It comes down to consistency and the dedication I've invested, and it's rewarding to see results materializing with strong performances. However, this is merely the season's beginning. I have much more I aspire to achieve.
"I believe I can excel in various offensive roles, but I've always felt natural operating from the left flank, while also thriving in spaces behind the main striker.
"I've consistently been comfortable in that role. It enables me to utilize my key attributes, penetrate the penalty area, and make forward runs. Therefore, I consider it an ideal position."