The U.S. and FC Dallas midfielder spoke exclusively to Goal.com about his breakout season, and his hope of playing in Europe some day.
Brek Shea is in the midst of a breakout season, and the 21-year-old FC Dallas midfielder is one of the leading candidates for MLS MVP honors.Shea has emerged as his team's star player following an early season-ending injury to last season's MVP David Ferreira. The Hoops currently sit in third place in the Western Conference, a position many thought would not be possible without Ferreira.
“The team has been doing well,” said Shea in an exclusive interview with Goal.com. “I think that the organization and the team has stepped up. No one thought we could have success without him (Ferreira) and we've shown we can.”
FC Dallas has been a team on the rise in recent years. Last season the squad lost in the MLS Cup to the Colorado Rapids. Shea has faith that his team can finish the job this season.
“We did really well up until the final (last year). We were really disappointed in ourselves, but this year I think we just gotta keep doing what we are doing and get wins,” Shea said.
Recently, U.S. national team coach Jurgen Klinsmann called Shea in for friendlies against Mexico, Costa Rica, and Belgium. The youngster impressed on the left flank, including a game-tying assist to Robbie Rogers against Mexico.
While being called into the national team is a reward, it does add more minutes for Shea, who has played a lot of soccer in the past month. He says that he has his trainers' regiments to thank for his fitness.
“Each team I have been playing with has really good trainers, they help us stretch and keep us hydrated. It's stuff that is kind of annoying (in order) to keep your body ready. But they do a really good job with that,” Shea said.
Shea added that he felt Klinsmann's camps went very well for the team, and despite obtaining just one draw from the new coach's first three friendly matches, he believes the team is headed in the right direction.
"I think he (Klinsmann) has been doing well. Getting a lot of practices in, getting ready for games, and getting everyone to know each other.” Shea said.
The new attacking mindset of the national team also suits Shea well, as he is often utilized in a wide role. He commented on Klinsmann's new attacking mentality:
“Both games, we are playing a new style,” he said. “I feel like it is a lot more attacking and possession oriented. I think it was fun, it was fast paced, and even though we didn't get the results I think we did well.”
As is common for many up and coming stars of United States soccer, Shea has generated reported interest from clubs in Europe. For now he says he is committed to playing for FC Dallas, but also admits he could be lured to Europe eventually.
“I am happy playing for Dallas right now, but obviously I want to play in Europe eventually one day,” Shea said. “My contract here is for three more years. If the chance comes some day and I get a chance to play over there I'd really enjoy it.”
