"The motivation of seeing the first team and being a part of the most successful club in this country can really help players develop their potential."
The growth of soccer in the United States has taken a new direction in the previous few years with an emphasis on MLS teams having academies. United’s academy has shown that it is a leader in providing strong talent for the first team as well as at grooming strong prospects for the future. One of the players United has signed is Conor Shanosky, a USA u-20 player. Conor was kind enough to answer a few questions for the blog regarding his adjustment to Major League Soccer and who might be United’s next Academy stand out.
Black and Red on Both Sides: Thank you Conor for taking the time to answer a few questions! First, what has been the biggest adjustment to becoming a full time professional soccer player?
Conor Shanosky:
The biggest adjustment to becoming a full time pro is going from being one of the best players on the team to one of the lower guys on the depth chart. It is definitely a healthy adjustment though and is necessary for any player looking to prove himself at the highest level possible. I want to improve every day and help this club as much as I can no matter where I stand.
B&RoBS: What can you tell us about United's academy system and how it helps prepare young players for the full team?
Conor:
The academy system is great to help a player prepare for the first team. Being able to be involved with a professional organization is great for youth players. I was able to see firsthand how the first team was, and I wanted to be right there with them. The motivation of seeing the first team and being a part of the most successful club in this country can really help players develop their potential.
B&RoBS: Which players in the academy now should fans be looking out for in the future?
Conor:
Our academy has produced some great players and I think that will definitely continue. I know we have a good amount of players that are very talented. Marcus Salandy Defour has trained with us the past two days and is a very good player.
B&RonBS: Which of your teammates have reached out to help ease your transition to the full team and what have they told you?
Conor:
Everyone in the team has been great at welcoming me to the first team. I think Jed Zayner has reached out to me a lot. He has given me good advice about dealing with the ups and downs of the game and just a lot of good advice about being a professional.
B&RoBS: Lastly, just for fun, which pro league in Europe do you follow and who do you have as the team to win it?
Conor:
My favorite league around the world to watch is the Premier League in England. The intensity of every game and the big name clubs and players throughout the league make it my favorite league to watch. On the other hand, I can't get enough of this Barcelona team. I love the way they play the game with the beautiful passing and fluid movement. I think they are going to be recognized as one of the greatest teams ever, so I try to take in every aspect of their game.
B&RoBS: Thanks again Conor and good luck this season. I look forward to speaking to you again in the future! For those that wish to follow this blog on twitter, click this link and follow!
