Jesse Marsch has told Men In Blazers that Tyler Adams has the potential to be elite and suggested that people underestimate just how intelligent the Leeds United midfielder actually is.
Adams has been one of the stars of the World Cup so far – on and off the pitch. Of course, the 23-year-old has been superb for the USMNT in their draws with both Wales and England.
But he is also receiving plaudits for his captaincy. Adams was lauded by many for his considered response to an Iranian journalist during his press conference ahead of the US’s crucial group-stage clash with Iran on Tuesday.
Marsch praises Tyler Adams
Obviously, Leeds fans have been raving about Adams for several months following his move to Elland Road. He has been arguably our player of the season so far. And many appear to be tipping the American to be a future captain of the Whites.
His stock has only risen while he has been in Qatar. But Marsch is clearly not at all surprised to see Adams steal the show at the tournament.
In fact, Marsch believes that Adams’ destiny was always to lead his country out at the World Cup. And it would appear that he would not have been shocked to see the midfielder navigate the tricky press conference so well.
“Tyler, for me, when he can play with confidence and intensity, and display his athleticism and intelligence combined, he can be elite. And I knew that. I knew that before he came to Leeds,” he told Men In Blazers.
“He’s true to himself. And for a young man his age, I think he’s gotten comfortable with exactly who he is.
“He’s a smart kid. I think people underestimate how intelligent he is. In this world, there aren’t as many professional football players who have had as good an upbringing, has had as good an education as what he’s had. I think he and his family are grounded in all the things that matter in life, not just football.
“He’s special. I texted him before the match and said to him the day I saw him when he was 15 years old, playing for youth 17s, I literally that day envisaged him captaining the World Cup team.”
World Cup doing little for our hopes of keeping the midfielder
It is almost frustrating to see Adams do so well at the tournament.
Of course, Leeds fans can feel an incredible sense of pride at seeing him shine on the biggest stage.
But selfishly, we want to hold onto Adams for as long as possible. And sadly, our chances of doing exactly that will not be helped by the midfielder doing so well at the World Cup.
Thankfully, Marsch’s comments suggest that Adams will be smart enough to see that he is at the best club for his development right now.
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