‘Screw’ the USMNT? Teen star Noel Buck explains wearing retro England shirt & why he is favouring Young Lions over country of his birth

The highly-rated 18-year-old midfielder had sparked talk of selection by the USMNT ahead of Gregg Berhalter naming their latest squad. He was not included on that list, but has been included by England at U19 level.

Buck is a Massachusetts native, but qualifies to play for England through his father. He has previously been discussed as an option for youth camps by the land of his birth, but now appears to be edging towards the Young Lions after being caught on camera arriving at Revolution training wearing an England top from the 2002 World Cup.

Explaining why he is moving away from the USMNT, Buck has told The Blazing Musket: “I feel like they haven’t really given me the time of day to be completely honest. And when I get called to an England camp, you know, it’s an honour for me. Wearing this [England] shirt isn’t a symbol of like, screw the U.S. because it’s not. They just haven’t given me the time of day and I want to have a good time and really learn something there.”

Buck has spoken with Berhalter – being told that he can compete for a place on America’s 2026 World Cup roster – but added on being overlooked too often by the States: “I think besides just talking a bit with Gregg, the U.S. haven’t really talked to me a whole lot. You know, there’s been some talks about U19s a year ago, but other than that, not a whole lot. England have really shown some interest and I’m glad to take it.”