LA Galaxy defender Omar Gonzalez was once again called up to the U.S. national team ahead of vital World Cup Qualifiers and judging by the comments made by national team coach Jurgen Klinsmann, the center back figures to play a major role in the upcoming matches.
Gonzalez was one of six defenders named to Klinsmann's 23-man roster for the U.S.’ matches against Costa Rica on March 22 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park and Mexico at Estadio Azteca on March 26. The Galaxy center back is joined by three other central defenders including Geoff Cameron, Clarence Goodson, and Matt Besler.
During a media conference call following the roster announcement, Klinsmann praised Gonzalez’s 90 minute performance on Feb. 6 against Honduras and tabbed him to be an important figure going forward.
“To me, he has the opportunity to grow and mature in our environment. I think he’s done well in Honduras. Even though the second goal happened because of a sequence of mistakes by several players involved that manipulated the game, but overall, he played an absolute okay game,” said Klinsmann. “I had him with me the whole January camp which has been a pleasure to see his potential. Now for him, to get to another level, it is only by playing and gaining experience and growing. I think he’s done well so far. We believe that there is a real special player coming through the system.”
