You’ve been in this league for a lot longer and featured in more games than most 24-year-olds do at this point in their careers. Have you seen yourself become more of a leader given your experiences and the youth within the squad? How would you describe your role within the team?
I’ve definitely become more of a leader in front of the youth. Over the years, I’ve grown out of that role of cleaning up in the gym and picking up things after training. It still feels weird because I am a veteran on the team but I’m still young, so I think it will take a few more years before I’m a leader in that sense.
Along with being around an exciting group of young players, you’ve also had the opportunity to play alongside some MLS icons. What’s it like playing with guys like Graham Zusi and Roger Espinoza and having the chance to pick their brains about the game or anything going on with your career?
From literally the first day I was at this club, Matt Besler was always a big help to me and the other academy players as well. Obviously, Roger and Zusi were welcoming as well, and it was just nice to have leaders on the team like that. That’s how you know when you come from the academy, you’re going to have the right treatment and acclimate to the first team as easily as possible.
