STEVE SAMPSON
On what it will take to succeed: “We need a very special effort to do well in this World Cup. Coming together as a group, and focusing and concentrating, will be a big part of our ability to achieve that kind of success.”
On how well prepared his team is “I don’t think we have ever been better prepared for a World Cup. A lot of this has to do with the number of players that have already played in a World Cup. They understand the pressures involved in a World Cup.”
PREKI
On the match against Germany: “Of course we are underdogs. I think this can work in our favor. If they have any weakness it might be that they are overconfident.”
On Germany: “Germany says in the press that they respect us but deep down I don’t think they do. That could be our chance.”
On his role as a substitute: “It’s a very difficult role because you have to do the best you can in the time you are given. By the time you get into the pace of the game, the game is over.”
BRIAN MCBRIDE
On the surroundings where the U.S. is staying: “There’s not much to do out here besides feed the animals… We have broken almost every single dart here.”
On Columbus Crew teammate and U.S. captain Thomas Dooley: “With Thomas, you know he doesn’t get nervous. Nothing surprises him, probably because he has seen it all.”
