|Following in the footsteps of Brian McBride as the Fulham faithful’s favourite American, Clint Dempsey looks set to extend another sparkling season in the white of Fulham with what could be memorable four weeks in the white of the USA.
With eight World Cup finals already under their belt, this will be their sixth in succession, having topped the Hexagonal phase of the North, Central America and Caribbean zone with commendable efficiency.
“We have come a long way,” reflects Clint. “When you look back at previous tournaments, perhaps we were just happy to make up the numbers. But that’s certainly not the case now.
“Over the years the US have got better and better, and at this moment in time we have no fear. I think we have shown that we can compete with the best nations in the world of football.”
The 27-year-old has become one of the Whites’ most important players, a popular figure among both team-mates and fans for his contribution, creativity and goals.
However, come Saturday, those same supporters who habitually sing Dempsey’s name in chorus, could be shaking their heads in collective predictability. We know exactly what Dempsey is capable of, and the American midfielder will be one of his country’s greatest threats as the US meet England in the Group C opener in Rustenburg.
“Everyone wants to talk to me about England,” rejects Clint. “But there are two other tough teams that we have to prepare and focus for as well – we can’t forget about Slovenia and Algeria, who have also earned their right to be here.
“Sure, England is a very good team and will be among the favourites. But at the end of the day, we have to play our own game; we know our strengths, and we know our weaknesses. You can have all the game plans in the world, but during those 90 minutes anything can happen, and when it does, you just have to adapt.
“We play England in the opening game, which is exciting. They have a lot of quality, and in recent games they have got the better of us. But as long as we are focused and compact defensively, we have a chance.”
This will be Dempsey’s second World Cup finals, having previously impressed in Germany in 2006, despite USA’s failure to progress from their group. A goal in the final group game was not enough as John Pantsil’s Ghana claimed a place in the knock-out stage at the US’ expense.
His 43rd minute strike did, however, see him handed the key to his home town of Nacogdoches and ultimately put him in the shop window – doing much to prompt his move to Fulham.
“That goal is the highlight of my career, nothing will replace that,” insists Clint. “That was the day that I realised a dream of scoring on the greatest stage of them all – an ambition I had held since I was a little kid.
“But I do look back on that tournament with mixed emotions. Personally, it was a good one for me, but for the team, it wasn’t so good. Sure, we were in a difficult group (which included Italy and Czech Republic), but had we beaten Ghana we could have progressed. So hopefully we can put that right this time.”
Clint was speaking exclusively to Fultime Magazine. To read the full interview and the rest of a World Cup special featuring Mark Schwarzer, John Pantsil, Dickson Etuhu, Kaghisho Dikgacoi, George Cohen, Paul Parker and Ray Houghton, plus reflection on an unforgettable season at Fulham, see this summer’s publication, delivered to Season Ticket Holders and Members this week, or available from Club stores for just £3.50. Alternatively buy your copy online today!|