November 14, 2012
SOME YOUNG IDEAS
Klinsmann impressed with youngsters' performance

KRASNODAR, Russia -- Beyond the final result -- a 2-2 tie with Russia -- U.S. coach Juergen Klinsmann on Wedesday felt one of the most important things that came out of the international friendly was that his younger players got some much needed experience.

“It was important for us to introduce some younger players to the senior level," he said. "I think they all did great. There is nothing to lose for them in a game like that. They can only win."

Josh Gatt made his international debut, starting on a three-man forward line along with Jozy Altidore and Heerculez Gomez before he was replaced by former Red Bulls striker Juan Agudelo in the 63rd minute.

Midfielder Mix Diskerud came on as an 87th-minute substitute for Geoff Cameron and wound up scoring the equalizing goal -- his first with the full National Team -- some three minutes into added time.

"So, you are pleased for them," Klinsmann said. "For us, it’s important that we have these youngsters grow step-by-step. Our team over the last 6-12 months grew a lot. We developed a lot more personality and confidence to compete with the best teams out there.

"We still have a long way to go, but I think we have a very good path and these younger players are a very important part of this path. Hopefully, we get more opportunities to give them playing time.”