Former Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson has blasted the US media for their criticism of Tyler Adams in the 3-1 defeat to Netherlands. Adams and his USA team=mates' World Cup dream came to an end last weekend as they were beaten in the last-16 by Louis van Gaal's side.
The 23-year-old won a number of plaudits for his performances in the group stages for his country, particularly in the USA's 0-0 draw with England. However, Adams was deemed to be 'at fault' for Netherlands' opening goal as he failed to track the run of Memphis Depay, who steered home unmarked in the area.
CBS rated his performance as a 5/10 and said the following on his display: "This was the first game of the tournament where Adams didn't shine brightly. The passing of the Dutch was just so efficient and quick, he never was able to truly react and stop them. He also is at fault for the first goal as Depay passed him and ended up being completely unmarked for his well-taken goal."
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Robinson, though, believes that criticism of Adams is harsh due to the quality of his performances earlier in the tournament, claiming he is the best player USA have had in a 'long time'.
He told MOT Leeds News: "You can't criticise him. At the end of the day, the US media need to be thankful they've got a player of his quality. It's a long time since the Americans had a player as good as him.
"They've had some good players down the years but Adams is at a different level. He's capable of playing high up in the Premier League, challenging for the title and for Champions League teams.
"His performances at the World Cup have been absolutely exemplary. He's been the best player the US have had so it's difficult to criticise him for one game."
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