Matt Polster And Alhassan Yusuf Setting the Tone in Midfield
Carles Gil: “When we can have the best Matt, it's easier for everyone because he's a player that can do many things."
Matt Polster and Alhassan Yusuf are getting comfortable in the middle of the park for the New England Revolution.
Polster, who was sidelined with an injury to begin the year, has started four straight games. The veteran has been making big tackles, a trend since he joined the club in 2020.
He has also looked to get the ball forward, often connecting with Carles Gil.
“Matt is a key player for us,” Gil said. “When we can have the best Matt, it's easier for everyone because he's a player that can do many things. He can win tackles, but he's also good on the ball.
“And he is a very important guy in the locker room. So, to feel his energy from the midfield is, like I said, key for us. I think it’s important to have him back, but the way that he’s playing is key for us.”
Polster has recently partnered with Yusuf, who is in his first full season with the Revs after signing in August 2024.
Head coach Caleb Porter noted that the Nigerian international has adjusted well to Major League Soccer.
“I think he’s getting more and more comfortable, not only with the league, but with his teammates,” Porter said.
Polster and Yusuf have patrolled the middle for both of the Revs’ wins with Gil in front of them. The trio has made the most progressive passes on the team.
As expected, Gil leads the way with 77 while Yusuf (42) and Polster (20) trail him.
On Thursday, Porter complimented Polster and Yusuf.
“I think [Yusuf] and Matt are really developing good chemistry together on both sides of the ball,” Porter said. “I thought in the game against Atlanta, those two were excellent.”