It sounded like music to the ears of some U.S. national team fans when Leeds United midfielder Bradley Johnson stated in a recent interview with SkySports.com that he wanted to play for the United States. Unfortunately for Johnson and U.S. fans, he can't play for the USA any time soon.
Johnson (pictured, left) is not a U.S. citizen and is not close to becoming a U.S. citizen, and therefore is not close to becoming a U.S. national team player, a source with knowldge of Johnson's status told SBI on Wednesday.
Johnson was under the impression that he was eligible to play for the United States because he has an American grandfather, but at present that status will bring him no closer to gaining American citizenship. In Europe, having a grandparent of a certain descent would be enough to secure citizenship and a passport from a variety of countries (as American goalkeeper Dom Cervi did in securing an Italian passport to help him sign with Celtic).
So at present, Johnson is not eligible to play for the United States any time soon. That is, unless he pulled a David Regis and found an American to marry, but even then he would have to wait three years.
What do you think of this news? Disappointed Johnson can't play for the United States? Still wondering where the wing midfield depth will come from for the U.S. team?
Share your thoughts below.
Ives Galarcep is an American soccer columnist for ESPNsoccernet.com and creator of SoccerByIves.net.
Have a tip, story idea or suggestion? Send it to:
