FRISCO, Texas – FC Dallas defender Reggie Cannon joined Jason Davis on SiriusXM FC Monday afternoon, as the two chatted about a range of topics, from Cannon’s new contract to the upcoming Olympic qualifiers.
But first, Cannon was asked about Saturday’s entertaining 2-2 draw with Montreal, which saw FC Dallas mount a late second half comeback to earn a point on home soil.
“Montreal is always a team we are unfortunately chasing on the backend of the game but having someone like [Ricardo Pepi] step through and have that next-man-up mentality really meant a lot,” Cannon said. “As Homegrowns, we have this responsibility of fueling the torch and passing it along. Pepi has been really promising.”
While the result may have felt like two points dropped for many, Cannon is certainly happy with where the squad currently stands.
“Obviously, we’d love to have all six points we could have grasped, but now we’re looking at the undefeated run,” he said. “We’re starting off strong. We just think we could definitely work on [some things] at the back.”
The discussion then transitioned into Cannon new four-year contract and what it means for his potential future abroad. The defender made it clear, however, that his current focus rests solely with FC Dallas.
“Right now, I just want to put it out there that I’m present with FC Dallas,” he said.
As Cannon prepares for the CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Championship, which will take place in Guadalajara, Mexico, from Mar. 20 to Apr. 1, he is excited to see how the young team can grasp the opportunity to end the team’s 10-year Olympics draught.
“This is a strong group capable of going so far,” he said. “It’s going to be a grind.”
Cannon also shared some perspective on his discussions with United States National Team head coach Gregg Berhalter, who helped him understand that the chance to help lead the Americans back into the Olympics is a priceless one.
“I really don’t look at it as a demotion to the U-23s,” Cannon said. “I look at it as a positive opportunity.”
Cannon will be joined in Mexico by teammates Jesus Ferreira and Paxton Pomykal, as the trio will look to write their own chapter of international history.
