Most of us are in this more than just for playing soccer. We're in it for the bigger goal - to move it along for the next generation.

I didn't have to step up into a leadership role, ... I just had to be there and help out where I could. But this year I had to be more of the man.

I'm lucky to be doing what I love, and I appreciate that I can make a good living doing it. I love to play soccer-whether it's in a game, practice or playing with friends-so it isn't like I'm under pressure at all.

Everything balled up into one: Beat Mexico and qualify. There's no better scenario.

If you let the reality of the business side get to you, it can turn you, and that's not good at all.

As a spectator, you get to watch everything, but I'd much rather be playing than watching. I'll have time to watch later in my career.

The second-highest honor is playing for your country, and the highest honor is wearing the armband for your country. It shows that the players have confidence in me, and that feels good.