U.S. Soccer Team Tribute Donovan: Landon 'Goal-less' In Ecuador Draw; Coach Klinsman 'Landon Playing Full Of Energy. I Think He Really Enjoyed It.'
The U.S. Soccer Team Tribute Donovan was a teary memory for most of the U.S. international squad. A video released by Team USA had all the highlights of Landon Donavan career with Team USA. Donovan's retirement was capped with his final appearance in Hartford against Ecuador. The game ended in a draw.
"The best for me was watching the video and letting myself go a little bit because I've been so focused on all the other stuff that was going on," he said. "There's just a lot, you know. There's a lot of moments and memories and my life has been shaped through this sport and I'm so blessed.
Despite a few missed opportunities, Donovan managed to find the goal post during the last game of the match with the U.S. team. Watch video here.
After making a couple of strong plays against the defensive Ecuadorians, reports say that Coach Jergen Klinsman was rooting for the striker. Klinsman's strategy not to use Donovan in the front lineup in FIFA Brazil World Cup 2014, drew much controversy and strained their relationship, say sources familiar to the story.
"It was exciting to see Landon in this game playing full of energy. I think he really enjoyed it," said Klinsman, who said Donovan failed fitness tests for Brazil, adding, "That's why I left him longer than was planned, because I had the feeling he'd get another chance and maybe put one in. He got another chance but just missed it by a little."
In the 41st min with no goals scored, Donovan gave his captain's band to Jozy Altidore, while adding on Joe Corona who also missed Brazil World Cup 2014.
Donovan will return to LA Galaxy after he retires from Team USA.
