Former USMNT defender Alexi Lalas has described Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams 'mature beyond his years' in terms of his leadership qualities. Adams has enjoyed an excellent start to life at Elland Road since his summer switch from Red Bull Leipzig, already establishing himself as somewhat of a fan favourite thanks to his consistent performances.
The 23-year-old has already captained his country on eight occasions and has displayed splashes of becoming a leader at Leeds through both his interviews, and the way he conducts himself on the pitch. He is set to play a key role at the World Cup for USA later this month, where he will be looking to transfer his club form onto the international stage.
The US have not won any of their last three matches heading into the tournament in Qatar, two of which included disappointing draws against El Salvador and Saudi Arabia. That said, Lalas believes that manager Gregg Berhalter will recognise the importance of Adams in his team and described him as one of football's 'unsung heroes'.
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Speaking on his State of Union Podcast, he said: “Tyler Adams I’d say, he’s not a reluctant leader, but he’s a much more reserved and mature beyond his years when he talks about the game. I think that if he’s healthy he may end up being one of those unsung heroes of the sport.
"He’s not flashy but I think Gregg Berhalter recognises that there is a consistency of play, and more importantly an understanding of what the role is in terms of cleaning up in that middle three.”
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