From a cynical point of view, the U.S. men’s national soccer team friendly next Wednesday against Mexico is nothing but a cash grab for the organizers. The game falls outside a FIFA international window, leaving the coaches with limited roster options, and, unlike the tournament clash between the heated rivals in June, it carries no consequences.
But for U.S. interim coach Anthony Hudson, the friendly will facilitate another opportunity to evaluate the talent pool heading into a busy summer.
On Wednesday, Hudson named 23 players for the brief training camp and friendly at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.