WATCH: USMNT attacking midfielder Malik Tillman scores on Bayer Leverkusen debut after PSV switch

USMNT star Malik Tillman began his Leverkusen career in style, scoring midway through the first half in his maiden start for Erik Ten Hag's side on Saturday. The attacking midfielder reacted first to a deflected cross, controlled, and poked home from close range to give his side a 2-0 lead over Werder Bremen. 

Tillman was widely expected to make his debut last week, but a knock ruled him out of the matchday squad. However, he was deemed fit to play right from the first whistle Saturday afternoon. Tillman scored 12 goals and added two assists in the Eredivisie last year. 

Tillman was a surprise omission from the USMNT squad for the upcoming September friendlies. After starring at the Gold Cup, it was largely expected that he would be given the opportunity to further impress Mauricio Pochettino. However, the Argentine manager left Tillman out, in part because of his return from injury. 

The Bundesliga is now on hold for an international break. Leverkusen's next game is what seems to be a tricky home fixture against Frankfurt on September 12.