‘Very difficult’: Sky pundit lauds Leeds star’s ‘tenacity’ at 2022 World Cup

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Sue Smith has praised USA captain Tyler Adams for making the game ‘very difficult’ against England. The Sky Sports pundit admires the Leeds United star’s ‘tenacity’ at the World Cup.

Adams has led the Stars and Stripes into the knockout stages at Qatar 2022 as the runners-up in Group B. The USA beat Iran 1-0 following a 1-1 draw with Wales and a goalless affair with the Three Lions. Their results secured a Round of 16 encounter with the Netherlands.

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Gregg Berhalter’s team meet the Group A winners on Saturday, December 3 at the Khalifa International Stadium. The USA have not gone further than the second round at any World Cup since reaching the quarter-finals in 2002. They exited in the last 16 in 2010 and 2014.

Leeds star Adams led the USA to the Round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup

Berhalter gave Leeds midfielder Adams their captaincy before the USA’s first World Cup tie against Wales. The £20m New York native has since led by example through their Group B meetings. The 35-cap technician played every minute over the Stars and Stripes’ three ties.

From the off in Qatar, Adams took ownership of an integral role in Berhalter’s system. The 23-year-old has set the tone in their games and worked tirelessly in and out of possession. His work in front of the defence particularly caused the Three Lions a number of problems.

Sue Smith hails the Leeds star’s work to restrict England’s efforts in Qatar

Smith particularly admired what Adams offered the USA against England as the Leeds star limited Gareth Southgate’s team. Speaking on Sky Sports News (03/12, 08:44), the former England women’s forward suggested the Three Lions struggled to overcome his efforts.

Also, Smith feels Adams’ form at the World Cup could merit a place in a team of the group stage. But the former Leeds women’s star instead opted for England’s Borussia Dortmund ace Jude Bellingham. The USA will hope he will repeat his efforts against the Netherlands.

“I wanted Tyler Adams in there, as well, because of his energy, his tenacity,” Smith said. “We’ve seen what he’s been doing for Leeds in the Premier League.

“But when I watched the USA against England, I just thought he was difficult and he made it very difficult for England’s midfield. But I don’t think we could leave out Bellingham.”