Americans Abroad: Josh Sargent strikes again, Zack Steffen injured
US men's national team figures made their mark in European leagues this weekend.
Josh Sargent scored the winning goal for Norwich City against Sunderland, while Haji Wright found the back of the net with Antalyaspor. But it wasn't all positive, as Zack Steffen missed Middlesbrough's match against Swansea after picking up a knee injury during training.
Here's everything you need to know about American figures abroad...
1. Josh Sargent scores
Josh Sargent is at it again.
The player maintained his impressive form, scoring the winning goal in Norwich City’s road victory over Sunderland. That’s three goals in the past two games for the American player in the Championship, boosting his profile as the World Cup approaches.
Sargent’s efforts have propelled Norwich to fourth on the table with 10 points in six games and a record of 3W-2L-1D.
2. Haji Wright's strong start to the season
Wright scored twice in Antalayspor’s 5-2 loss to ultimate league leaders Gaziantep. The forward managed both strikes within a 10-minute span in the first half, boosting his side’s first half lead.
Though the goals were not enough to seal the victory, the American still deserves recognition for his strong start in the Turkish Super Lig. His efforts might just be enough to catch the attention of USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter.
3. Zack Steffen injured
Zack Steffen missed his chance with Middlesbrough over the weekend, after picking up a knee injury during training. The player was ruled out of making an appearance when failing the fitness test prior to kickoff.
Manager Chris Wilder confirmed the lesion after the match and remained hopeful that the American could make a quick comeback.
“We’re hopeful he can play on Tuesday night,” Wilder said Monday in his pre-match press conference.
Steffen stands as one of many USMNT goalkeeping options headed to Qatar, competing against Matt Turner, Ethan Horvath and Sean Johnson. Though the lack of playing time could be a potential setback, he remains as the frontrunner under head coach Gregg Berhatler.
4. Honorable mentions
Weston McKennie came off the bench in the 77th minute to feature in Juventus' 1-1 draw against AS Roma.
Tyler Adams and Brenden Aaronson played in Leeds United’s 1-0 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Jordan Pefok recorded two assists in Union Berlin’s 6-1 win over Schalke.