As the FIFA World Cup nears kickoff, the United States Men's National Team is still trying to figure out who will be in the starting XI.
The biggest positional debate is at goalkeeper. Matt Freese is the favorite to start but Matt Turner has been red hot in Major League Soccer play. Both goalkeepers indicated that they hadn't been told who will be starting.
"Being ready for if my number is called and just training every day, preparing for every game like I'm playing, regardless of what the coach ultimately decides here," Turner told media members out on the West Coast. "I think the coach will always pick the guy that's playing the best, and you know he's going to make the right decision for the team."
Turner credited his move to New England for aiding his resurgence with the USMNT.
Chris Richards Ready to Go
Another question prior to the commencement of the tournament was the status of center back Chris Richards. It appears that arguably the most important player on the back line will be ready for the start of the tournament.
"I'm ready," Richards told reporters Wednesday. "I mean, it's the World Cup, so I'm going to make myself ready regardless. I'm feeling good. Maybe a little swollen, but nothing tape can't help."
Richards tore two ligaments in his left ankle during a Premier League match for Crystal Palace on May 17 and hasn't participated in a match since. This includes the United States two tune-up friendlies recently.
Having Richards available will be a big boost for the U.S. as they look to make a deep run in the tournament that is being hosted on home soil.
