HOUSTON (AP) – Earlier this year, Geoff Cameron wasn’t quite sure what his role on the U.S. national team would be.
Things are much different now. Cameron has paired with John Brooks to star in central defense and help the United States reach Tuesday’s Copa America semifinal against Argentina.
“You could say it’s changed,” Cameron said with a chuckle on Monday. “I’m just trying to be a leader in the back and try to help the guys as best I can and just do my job and focus on my part, making sure that in the back four we’re organized and collectively John and I are on the same page, and whoever is in the right back position or left back position we’re all together as a team.”
The 30-year-old, who plays for Stoke in England’s Premier League, is certain to have his feet full on Tuesday night when he tries to slow Lionel Messi, the five-time FIFA Player of the Year. However, Cameron is quick to point out that containing Messi won’t be a one-man job.
“Messi’s the best player in the world,” Cameron said. “We know his creativity. We see his skillset. We’re going to try to limit his influence in the game. But you can’t focus just on him because there are a lot of other good players. A lot of people didn’t think we’d be where we are today, but it’s hard to beat 11 guys, and if 11 guys are on the same page and everybody’s working together as one, something can happen that’s special.”