Pochettino turns to England for USMNT reinforcements

Mauricio Pochettino has welcomed two key figures ahead of the second USMNT match against Jamaica.

This Saturday proved to be an eventful day for the United States men's national team as they prepared for the second leg of the 2024-25 CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal against Jamaica.

The team, led by Mauricio Pochettino, faced squad adjustments due to injuries after the first leg victory, but also welcomed reinforcements ahead of the second clash with the 'Reggae Boyz'.

In terms of absences, the USMNT will be without two key players for the second leg. Johnny Cardoso, who started the first leg but had to leave the field in the 21st minute, suffered a minor hamstring injury and will return to Spain to join his club Real Betis.

Which players will play for the US against Jamaica?

Meanwhile, England Championship regular Aidan Morris is sidelined with a sprained knee. He has traveled to Columbus for rehabilitation but will return to Middlesbrough for further assessment. Pochettino had shown particular confidence in Morris, playing him for 90 minutes against Panama and 83 minutes against Mexico in previous matches.

According to ESPN's Jeff Carlisle, the U.S. national team has opted not to call up replacements for Cardoso and Morris. This leaves Pochettino with Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Tanner Tessmann and Gianluca Busio as his main options in midfield, while Brenden Aaronson and Malik Tillman are expected to contribute in attack. This limited depth in midfield could pose challenges, but the team will be boosted with the return of Tim Weah and Brenden Aaronson.

Weah, who serves as a crucial right-wing option for Pochettino, is back after a two-match ban following his red card against Panama in the Copa America.

In addition, Aaronson, who missed the trip to Kingston due to flu symptoms, returned Saturday. His addition adds another dynamic option to the attack alongside Malik Tillman, Christian Pulisic, Weah, Alejandro Zendejas and others.