The USMNT released their 60-man preliminary roster ahead of this March's Concacaf Nations League semifinal against Jamaica.
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USA release preliminary Nations League rosterBrooks, Adams and Kochen surprise inclusions23-man roster due March 1WHAT HAPPENED?
Brooks, who has been brilliant at club level for Hoffenheim this season, has not appeared for the USMNT in nearly three years, with his last cap coming in September, 2021. However, his inclusion on the preliminary roster means that U.S. Soccer are no longer ignoring him, and that his experience could be vital this summer.
Kochen, meanwhile, is one of the biggest surprise inclusions but it's a sign that the USA are ready to fight for the 17-year-old Barcelona product who is a dual-national and eligible for Venezuela, Peru, Spain and the USMNT.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
With seven total goalkeepers on the roster, it's unlikely that Kochen gets the nod from Gregg Berhalter, but it's a positive sign for the youngster.
The biggest note for USMNT fans, though, is the inclusion of Tyler Adams. Their captain at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and arguably the most talented midfielder available, could finally return. He's been sidelined for nearly a year now, after suffering a season-ending injury with Leeds United last spring – and then re-aggravating the injury, causing a necessary surgery, last fall for Bournemouth.
Now, he's rumored to be eligible to return for the Cherries on March 3 against Burnley. However, with the USMNT roster set to be released eight days after, it would be too soon… right?
The entire roster can be viewed HERE.
DID YOU KNOW?
Berhalter will have to name his final 23-man roster by February 11, meaning over half of the preliminary roster will be cut.
WHAT NEXT FOR THE USMNT?
The match against Jamaica, which arrives on March 21, will pit the USMNT against sensational Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey and the Reggae Boyz. With a result, the USA would move on to the final against the winner of Panama vs Mexico.