International call-ups can be a team’s best friend or worst nightmare.
When it comes to FC Dallas, it’s an opportunity; not only for those being called-up but also for those looking to step up to fill those holes.
“Obviously, the most important [thing] is to get the team to react to [call-ups] the best way,” head coach Oscar Pareja said. “Just play someone else. [A player] needs to understand that [this] is the opportunity they were waiting for. And the guys who go to the national team will be growing to [the] international [level]. It’s a great scenario.”
This week alone forward Blas Perez and midfielder Rolando Escobar were called up for Panama as well as forward Tesho Akindele getting the call from Canada. Midfielder Kellyn Acosta is on leave for the United States in the U-20 World Cup, playing all 180 minutes in the team’s first two games. FCD could see more players called-up with FIFA friendlies and tournaments in the coming months.
“I get happy when I see these guys calls,” Pareja said. “It’s important for them. We can complain about not having them, but that’s part of the game. That’s the way it goes.”
Technical director Fernando Clavijo said he’s excited for the players representing their country, and FCD just has to adjust and makeup for something the team has been preparing for.
“[Call-ups are] a blessing at times,” Clavijo said. “When it [all] happens at the same time, it becomes a little bit of a challenge for us, but it’s good. I think it says very clearly that we have good, quality players. We were aware [of the call-ups.] We prepare as much as we can.”
FCD will look to its players who might not have seen the pitch as much this season.
“We have a lot of the younger players who may have the opportunity to perform in the coming weeks,” Clavijo said.
Pareja is hoping those players will take advantage of this opportunity.
“I can be happier to just see someone who is not playing normally to come on the field and make the job done and make the team difficult for the next decision,” Pareja said. “I’m pretty sure there are young ones there that are waiting for this moment, and I’m looking forward to seeing them on the field.”
