Weston McKennie has hailed Tyler Adams amid claims that Leeds United are scouting the Juventus ace ahead of the January window.
The United States kick off their World Cup campaign tonight as they take on Wales in Al-Rayyan.
Many will expect England to win Group B, potentially leaving Iran, Wales and USA to fight over second place and a spot in the knockout stages.
This USA v Wales game could be absolutely vital and both teams will be desperate to make a strong start to the World Cup.
Weston McKennie has hailed Tyler Adams
USA will have a number of notable players looking to take Wales down.
Christian Pulisic is one of the star men in the USA side but midfield duo Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie will be in action too.
Adams will be a familiar name to Premier League fans having joined Leeds United from RB Leipzig over the summer.
Now shining in the heart of the Leeds midfield, Adams is well on his way to becoming a solid and consistent Premier League performer.
Adams may feature alongside Juventus ace McKennie, and it’s clear that the pair have great respect for each other.
McKennie has been speaking to former MLS star and United States international Kyle Martino for Kwik Goal.
McKennie was asked to name the favourite player he has played with and despite turning out with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Paulo Dybala at Juventus, he picked Adams.
“I would probably have to say Tyler,” said McKennie. “There’s a history, there’s a background, we’ve shared kind of a similar story and we both… I feel like, when we’re both on the field together, we know we have each other’s back, no matter what comes.”
“If he sees I get tackled dirty, he’s messing up that guy and if I see him get tackled dirty, I’m messing up that guy. It’s honestly crazy and it’s amazing in my head whenever I think about it. We just understand each other so well and we get along so well.”
“Whenever you have that connection with someone, it’s better than any big name that may not do the same,” he added.
The praise is lovely to see but also very interesting given Leeds’ interest in signing McKennie.
CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs reported in October that Leeds have been scouting McKennie ahead of potentially launching a move.
Leeds have major American influence, not just on the pitch with boss Jesse Marsch but also off it with 49ers Enterprises heavily involved.
McKennie could add to that American flavour at Leeds and joining forces with Adams may well appeal given their strong bond.
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