Tyler Adams saw out the entire 90 minutes on Tuesday evening for the United States but could not help the USMNT beat Saudi Arabia in a friendly in Spain, drawing 0-0 – and US media have been critical of the Leeds United midfielder.
Adams, 23, has made an excellent start to life at Elland Road. Joining the club from RB Leipzig, he has already earned plenty of plaudits from fans for his hard-working, combative style in the middle of the park, alongside Marc Roca.
But he has endured a difficult international break. The USMNT were beaten 2-0 by Japan last week. One outlet branded Adams as “limited” and gave him a rating of just 4.5. It was a poor display, but they had the chance to put it right.
Travelling to Spain to take on Saudi Arabia, the US were favourites. But despite more possession, they failed to break down their opponents. The MLS website posted a player ratings pieces, and Adams was criticised again for his display.
The MLS gave him 5/10: “Adams did what Adams does. Covered ground, recycled possession, vocal leader. He really struggled to break down Saudi Arabia, circulating wide, when a more ambitious pass would have been rewarded.”
US media critical of Leeds midfielder Adams after Saudi Arabia draw
Against a side that have failed to score in their last three internationals coming into the game, Gregg Berhalter’s US side should really have won. But it was flat, and ultimately, the USMNT only managed to record two shots on target.
It is not really the type of game that gets the best out of Adams. The Leeds star is better-suited to games where his side are under the cosh. Where the other team enjoy more possession – ask Chelsea. He was exceptional in the 3-0 win.
Leeds will be hoping Adams can put this behind him. The positives are that he got 90 minutes again, the second time in the space of a few days, without any sign of injury. He will be in the starting line-up against Aston Villa on Sunday.
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