'That's way out of line' - Christian Pulisic hits back at USMNT legends Landon Donovan, Tim Howard amid criticism about out Gold Cup withdrawal

Christian Pulisic pushed back against former USMNT stars who criticized his decision to sit out this summer's Gold Cup. Landon Donovan, Tim Howard and others have called his commitment to the national team into question after he elected to not play in the tournament, which begins this weekend.

Pulisic hit back in an interview with CBS Sports Golazo, saying "You can talk about my performances, whatever you want. But to question my commitment, especially towards the national team? In my opinion that's way out of line."

Pulisic also said he offered to play in the two pre-Gold Cup friendlies vs Turkey and Switzerland, but that the coaching staff declined.

Pulisic's comments came amid criticism from USMNT legends of old who have slammed his choice to not play in the Gold Cup. The former Chelsea and Dortmund man hasn't played in the last three iterations of the tournament.

Pulisic said he wasn't surprised by the remarks.

"I try to stay away from it as much as I can," he said. "When it comes to those guys, it is tough because I looked up to those guys growing up. Some of those guys were my idols and I respect them so much as players.

"It's tough, especially as well when privately they talk to me and clearly want to show support and be your friend and everything... and then they say something slightly different publicly. That's fine. Does it hurt me? Am I surprised by it? Not really, people are always going to have their opinions."

The attacking midfielder will next play for the U.S. against South Korea and Japan in September. He will report for Milan for preseason in July.