‘He’s huge’: Legend hails Leeds star for ‘phenomenal’ World Cup display

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USA legend DaMarcus Beasley singled out Leeds United’s Premier League enforcer Tyler Adams on the back of a ‘phenomenal’ performance in the 1-1 World Cup group-stage draw with Wales in Qatar, speaking to talkSPORT (24 November, 11.40am). 

Gareth Soutgate’s bloodthirsty Lions head into Friday’s clash with a spring in their step following that 6-2 obliteration of Iran. But underestimate a tenacious, tireless USA outfit at your peril. 

With Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah and the indefatigable Adams lining up in midfield, England cannot expect to have so much time and space to weave those magical triangles at the Al Bayt Stadium. 

Only one player in the entire tournament – Tunisia’s Ali Abdi – has mustered more successful tackles than Adams’ six (WhoScored). And Beasley, capped over 120 times by his country, is expecting another monstrous display of industry and energy from a player already firmly established as a fans’ favourite at Elland Road. 

Leeds United ace Tyler Adams will be integral to the USA’s hopes against England

“You look at our captain. He’s 23 years old. The youngest captain in the World Cup,” Beasley says of Adams.

“He’s huge! He was the Man of the Match by far (against Wales), Tyler Adams from Leeds was phenomenal. Phenomenal. He’s going to be so important against England.”

USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner admits that Gregg Berhalter’s side will need to be far more ruthless against England than they were against Wales if they are to secure a point or more on Friday night (ESPN).  

Beasley agrees; insisting that rapid-fire counter-attacks represent America’s best hope of toppling arguably the most impressive side so far at the Qatar World Cup. 

“I think in transition (is where the USA can cause problems for England),” adds the former Rangers winger. “The things that Matt Turner talked about, they have to get that part right. Because they’re not going to out-possess England, especially if England play four at the back. 

“USA cannot give them too much respect. They have to go out and step on their toes from the first minute, just like they did against Wales. They have to.”