‘Unique experience’ gives USMNT star Tim Ream memories to last a lifetime as Fulham defender becomes a leader for club & country

The 35-year-old defender – who fills the armband for Premier League employers Fulham - was given the honour of leading the United States out during a friendly date against Uzbekistan. That contest took place at CITYPARK Stadium in what was once Ream’s backyard growing up.

Ream skippered his side to a 4-0 victory on the day and is delighted to have experienced something that few players – even those in his privileged position – get to enjoy over the course of a career. He has told Fulham TV: “It was a unique experience. I don’t know how many guys have had the opportunity to captain their national team in their home town. For me, to be able to do that – obviously represent a country, but then you break it down even more and you represent friends, family, ex team-mates, coaches that have helped you along the way – so to be able to have that opportunity was a special moment within a lot of special moments in a career. It’s one I will be able to cherish for a long time.”

Ream helped to ensure that he had plenty of support in St. Louis, with pre-camp ticket duty paying off. He added: “I made it clear when I went that I was going for work, for training and to do my job. Doing the lap that we do after, I saw a lot of familiar faces – even picking them out in a crowd. I know from talking to friends and family afterwards that there were a lot of people there watching and enjoying the game.”

Ream, who is committed to a contract at Fulham through to next summer and is setting his sights on gracing a home World Cup in 2026 when the United States takes on co-hosting duties, is now back in club action with Fulham and is readying himself for a London derby date with Crystal Palace on Saturday.