FC Nordsjælland left back Heath Pearce admits he was a bit disappointed after getting only 16 minutes of work during the US National Team's weekend friendly win over Denmark.
The Bold magazine SAS Liga Defender of the Year entered the match in the 74th minute, pushing Chivas USA sensation Jonathan Bornstein into midfield.
"[It's] a little frustrating, sure," Pearce told YA. "Personally, I felt I was the best left back in camp, and still do."
"I think I'm the best left back that the US has right now and I think I'll continue to get better."
The 22-year old, who picked up a smart assist on Kenny Cooper's goal, left camp along with fellow Danish-based defender Danny Califf after the match.
Pearce will not take part in the February 7th clash with Mexico, but could be called back overseas by US coach Bob Bradley for March friendlies with Ecuador and Guatemala.
The three-year University of Portland starter considers his chances for future caps to be good if he continues his club success, be it in Denmark or with one of his winter transfer window suitors.
"I think I'll keep getting shots," said Pearce, who has been linked with Brøndby, Club Brugge, FC Utrecht and Nürnberg, among others.
"I'll keep plugging away. Hopefully, I'll do the right things to prove that I am the best, and be in there every international."
While supremely confident of his skills, the California native is not one to badmouth competitors; Pearce had nothing but thumbs up towards Bornstein's debut showing.
"He did well for his first cap, and his goal ended up being the game winner, so that is good for the team," he stated.
"It's always good to have someone pushing you which in turn will help you better yourself. He had a nice debut and it's good for US Soccer, and for competition for places."
Unless Pearce switches teams in the next week, he will resume the SAS Liga schedule with his FC Nordsjælland teammates on March 11th at Brøndby.
note: Yanks Abroad's Chad Winger contributed to this report |
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