Folarin Balogun returned to USMNT camp after a year sidelined by injuries, including shoulder surgery and a recent calf issue. He recovered in time to score his first goal of the season for AS Monaco in a 3-2 win over Strasbourg and reports feeling fully fit. Balogun expressed eagerness to compete for places under new manager Mauricio Pochettino and sees the World Cup in 10 months as strong motivation to make an impact. He described the coaching staff and teammates as welcoming and supportive, which has helped his mental readiness.
"I think with Mauricio coming in, the objective was clear that he wanted to bring the group forward," Balogun said on a conference call with reporters. "So as players, it's no surprise for us to be competing for places and positions. I think it's something we've done all our careers, and everyone wants to make an impression and I think that's just natural. [The World Cup] is such a big competition coming in 10 months, it's important to leave your mark."
"I feel good. Injuries are behind me and yeah, it was a tough period, but I think every athlete goes through that at some stage," he said. "And yeah, first impressions of Mauricio and his staff, they've been really good for me. They've embraced me, made me feel welcome and the feedback I've got from the other players and stuff, they're great people and everyone's delighted to have them here, so it's all good."
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