Wednesday 14 November 2018 19:54, UK
USA interim head coach Dave Sarachan says Wayne Rooney's involvement in their friendly with England will create a "special buzz" at Wembley.
Sarachan says he fully supports England's decision to honour Rooney with a farewell appearance on Thursday night, with the 33-year-old expected to win his 120th cap off the bench.
The former Manchester United and Everton forward impressed in the MLS this season, helping DC United from the bottom of the table into the playoffs.
He scored 12 goals and six assists in 21 appearances for his new side and will now come up against the country he now resides in.
Sarachan said: "It adds a special buzz for the people here and adds a little more pressure on us for sure.
"I think it is terrific for a guy like Wayne [Rooney] to be rewarded for a great national team career. It's not like he is coming out of retirement, he is coming off a very good season in the United States.
"I don't think it cheapens the match. I think it is a reward for a great career. It's not like he hasn't been playing for two or three years. I think for a national team to reward a player who has given so much is good."
Two familiar names could play a part for the USA, with Timothy Weah, son of George Weah, and Jonathan Klinsmann, son of Jurgen Klinsmann, part of Sarachan's squad.
Weah, who is a forward at French club PSG, made his international debut in March and the 18-year-old has since earned seven caps.
Klinsmann, a goalkeeper at German club Hertha Berlin, was a late call-up to the squad to replace Columbus Crew stopper Zack Steffen who withdrew due to injury.
Sarachan added: "A lot of offspring follow their father's footsteps. It is a unique young group."
England take on USA live on Sky Sports Main Event on Thursday night from 7pm.
