U.S. captain Bradley weighs in on Trump victory ahead of Mexico clash
U.S. men's national team captain Michael Bradley says an upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Mexico in Ohio will have "an added layer" due, in part, to the results of the 2016 presidential vote which saw Donald Trump elected as the country's new commander-in-chief.
Trump's victory has divided the world of soccer, but the Toronto FC skipper was diplomatic in his answer when asked about his thoughts on the new leader of the Stars and Stripes.
"My general feeling is that we, as Americans, trust our system, we respect our democracy and, regardless of your beliefs, regardless of how you voted, we have an obligation to come together, get behind our new president and to have faith and trust that he will do what's best for the entire country," Bradley said, as quoted by The Washington Post.
"That's what we've always done and, in moments like this, it's easy to question things, but again, this is what makes our country great - the fact that we have our system where every American can go and vote. The results may not be what every person wanted - some people are happy, others aren't - but the way forward is to come together and give our new president support and rally behind him."
Trump has made comments in the buildup to his eventual presidency regarding Mexico, saying he plans to build a border wall and reform immigration policy, adding another layer to a footballing rivalry already brimming with plenty of history, especially at MAPFRE Stadium in Columbus.
As such, Bradley says he wants U.S. fans to remain strong and respectful in their support for the team.
"I would hope our fans do what they always do, which is support our team in the best, most passionate way possible. I would hope they give every person in that stadium the respect they deserve, whether they are American, Mexican, neutral," Bradley said.
"I hope every person that comes to the stadium comes ready to enjoy what we all want to be a beautiful game between two sporting rivals that have a lot of respect for each other, and hope that it's a special night in every way."