'USMNT is my outlet' - Chris Richards reveals how he's dealing with lack of minutes at Crystal Palace

Richards is back with the USMNT for upcoming matches against Trinidad & Tobago, which will determine qualification for next summer's Copa America. Richards, as things stand, could be part of the side, having performed well at centerback in performances throughout the year.

He's joined in camp by Tim Ream, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Miles Robinson, though, with any of the four able to start in the two upcoming matches.

Richards has been struggling for playing time at Palace, having played just 1111 total minutes so far this season in the Premier League in addition to 180 in the League Cup. Richards has not started a Premier League match since September 16, playing just 21 total minutes across the other three appearances.

“I know that when I’m coming here, it’s always good to get around these guys, but it’s also good to play with them and kind of use that as my outlet,” Richards said. “It keeps me going through the month knowing that hopefully I’ll get a game or two with the national team.”

He added: “At some points it can be challenging to keep your focus when you’re not playing week-in, week-out, and it’s even harder to keep your form. I think I just use training as that way to keep form, even though some days can be tougher than others.

“Especially when you’re not playing some days, the training after the game kind of does your head in a little bit, but you have to realize that it’s a journey. It’s not just what’s happening at the end of the week; it’s kind of the bigger picture.”

The USMNT will first play host to Trinidad & Tobago in Austin on Thursday before playing the away leg on Monday. In addition to advancing in the Nations League, the winner of the two-legged tie will have a spot in the Copa America next summer, while the loser will have a chance to qualify via the playoffs.