Pulisic and McKennie lead American World Cup 'revenge tour' squad

Reuters

Weston McKennie will be a pivotal piece for the US' World Cup campaign
Reuters

Christian Pulisic (24) headlines a young United States World Cup squad headed to Qatar and determined to show they belong on soccer's biggest stage after failing to qualify for the 2018 tournament.

Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie (24) made the cut despite lingering concerns over a thigh injury, along with goalkeeper Matt Turner (28), Lille forward Tim Weah (22) and Inter Miami defender DeAndre Yedlin (29).

"This is the revenge tour, if you want to call it that," said Yedlin.

Little has gone as hoped for the Americans ahead of their World Cup opener against Wales on November 21, as injuries have plagued their squad and Pulisic got limited playing time in the Premier League for Chelsea.

They failed to record a shot on goal in their penultimate warm-up match, a 2-0 defeat by Japan in September.

Days later, the far lower-ranked Saudi Arabia held them to a 0-0 draw.

"Final roster decisions are always difficult, and we appreciate everyone’s contributions who helped us get to this point," said head coach Gregg Berhalter (49).

"We believe we have a talented group, a strong team spirit, and one that is ready to compete."

Pulisic is the charismatic face of a nation eager to drum up enthusiasm for the sport among fans more interested in baseball and basketball four years from when the United States host the tournament along with Canada and Mexico.

But there was no lack of vigour among the American fans on Wednesday, where VIPs packed into a trendy Brooklyn concert hall for the squad announcement.

The US also face England and Iran in Group B.