Talking Soccer: Q&A with Graham Zusi

I talked with Graham Zusi over the phone while he was in Florida attending a soccer camp on behalf of the Gatorade Beat the Heat program. You can find more information about the program and hydration tips by following this link.

BG: "What are you doing in Florida with the 'Beat the Heat' program?"

GZ: I'm working with Gatorade, talking about the importance of staying hydrated during games.

BG: "Coming off of four wins in five matches including three straight World Cup qualification wins, how are you feeling about the United States right now?

GZ: The three qualification wins were very important and it was something we really demanded of ourselves when we came into camp. It was a huge step forward and we really feel like we have one foot in the door to Brazil.

BG: You've been called up multiple times this season, what's it like adjusting from club play with Sporting to playing with the national team?

GZ: It's not a huge adjustment. To be honest the way that Sporting plays I can use with the national team. I'm lucky for them to be so similar.

BG: You made your first USMNT appearance a year and a half ago and now you're a fixture in the lineup. What's it like being an important part of the lineup?

GZ: It feels great. It's something I've been working towards. The goal is to get better every time and to get more comfortable with the team.

BG: With the Gold Cup coming up in the next couple of weeks has Jurgen given you any indication what the roster will be like?

GZ: No, he hasn't told us what the 23-man roster will be yet.

BG: In the Sporting match on Saturday you moved back to the midfield for the first time this season. Will this be a permanent thing or was it just a one-time move?

GZ: I'm not sure we'll just have to see how it goes. I've played both positions and feel comfortable doing either one.

BG: There's been a lot of talk about an MLS team coming to Florida, whether it's Orlando or Miami. As a Florida native what would it mean for Florida to get a team?

GZ: It would be awesome. Orlando City is right there knocking on the door, walking over the competition in their league. I would say Florida definitely deserves a team.

BG: You had a trial with West Ham in the off-season and are getting some more notoriety on the national stage, have you heard anything more from Europe after the qualifiers?

GZ: No I haven't. I've kept the relationships open and I'm always striving to get the best competition. I keep an open door but I'm very happy where I am.

BG: Last question: As it's starting to get hotter, what's your advice to "beat the heat" in Kansas City?

GZ: Best advice I can give is to pay attention to the signs your body is giving you. If you're feeling thirsty you're already dehydrated. Also you can tell from the color of your pee. If it's clear you're fine but a yellowish color could be a sign of dehydration.