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McBride Retires From Int'l Football
(Goal.com) - Fulham's American striker Brian McBride has followed in the footsteps of Manchester City's American midfielder Claudio Reyna and has retired from international football following the 2006 World Cup.
The 34-year-old calls it quits on a 13-year career with the Stars and Stripes, having netted 30 goals in 95 international appearances. McBride scored three goals in 10 World Cup appearances and 10 goals in 25 World Cup qualifiers.
The 2005/06 Fulham Player of the Year was held scoreless at the 2006 World Cup. But McBride, known for his toughness, inspired fans when he returned to the pitch to play out USA's dramatic 1-1 draw with Italy despite getting bloodied up from a Daniele De Rossi elbow.
“This is a special day in that I have the opportunity to thank U.S. Soccer for all it has done for me and my family,” said McBride.
"I will truly miss being part of the team. Additionally, I want to thank the fans of U.S. Soccer for their enthusiasm and support. Without the encouragement and warm words from many fans, I would not be where I am today."
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Comments
crap!!!
Posted by: hugh | July 26, 2006 05:55 PM
He'll be missed,he was good and tough,playing abroad helped him he was one guy that you can count on to give his heart in a game.(some times it's worth more than talent).
Posted by: Tony p | July 26, 2006 08:07 PM
It's sad to see a player with his heart and determination call it quits. He did nothing but help the game of soccer. In a generation clouded with dirty play and forwards who are regarded for their diving skills McBride was different he will be missed
Posted by: donald | July 26, 2006 08:47 PM
Amen Donald, wow what a heart. I see him as the most into the game player ever. He is even ahead of Beckenbaur. But, we will all miss his amazing talent and want for the game.
Posted by: Yo | July 26, 2006 10:32 PM
i think McBride is pathetic... he has the cahnce to become one of the best American soccer players adn he's totally blowing it.. i think he's a huge dissapointment now to our coach
Posted by: dont worry bout it | July 26, 2006 11:25 PM
What's so pathetic about McBride? He had 30 int'l goals, second ever for an American...and you say he blew his chance to be one of the best American soccer players? He already is. Besides, he's already 34 years old. In 2010, he'd be 38. This isn't really a surprise. Give him his props, and just hope that somebody follows him with his level of passion for the game (and maybe a little bit more skill on the ball...)
Posted by: kicks22 | July 27, 2006 09:34 AM
I second all the comments in praise of McBride. Certainly he has been a player with unquestionable heart over many years of international service, and playing abroad helped him develop from a strong player into a truly effective target player. His arial abilities alone brought much to the field, and I can't think of another current player that has conducted himself with more class when repeatedly being a physical target. Thanks go to McBride for his contribution to the sport here in the States.
As for the comment by "dont worry bout it", I have to wonder what you might be talking about. As kicks22 said, he already is one of the top players in American history. He's not blowing any chances there. At 34 years of age, no one would really expect him to continue with the next World Cup being 4 years away. He's at the point of finishing off his career and it's the perfect time for this announcement.
McBride a disappointment to our coach... what coach? If you are talking about Bruce Arena, you can be sure that he has absolutely nothing but praise and admiration for McBride for being one of his go to players for Arena's entire 8 year coaching stint with the national team. And now that Arena's contract is not being renewed, who is there to disappoint. Whatever new coach is named to the national team position would never have no expectations of McBride, and frankly would never figure him into the equation at his age.
Some pretty off the wall comments.
Posted by: Heath Young | July 27, 2006 01:39 PM
The only guy that showed up for the US.
Posted by: ForzaItalia | July 27, 2006 02:27 PM
McBride is just being smart & leaving a sinking ship. It would be pointless for him to stick around for four more years of losing.He should donate that huge head of his to the American Soccer Hall of Fame. Man! He's got a big head that's for sure!Kind of looks like that monster from that movie .. RawHeadRex.
Posted by: Phantasm | September 12, 2006 02:19 AM
Yes I agree McBride has a very big head as it reminds me of an off road tire. It's no wonder he always likes to head the ball. He should team up with that little French player from the French National Team, The guy with the scars all over his face. They could call themselves Team Monster Mash or Team Block Heads.
Posted by: Barnabas Collins | September 12, 2006 03:36 AM