In an interview with The New York Times’ Jack Bell, Landon Donovan reflects on “Beckhamania” and his burgeoning partnership with the world’s most recognizable soccer star. “It was, believe it or not, as incredible an experience to be a part of as it seemed at the time,” the L.A. Galaxy striker said. “This year, I think I’m much better and stronger mentally for it. It just, in a funny way, it just instantly gave credibility to everything we do.”
Few would dispute that something has changed in Donovan since last season. The U.S. international has eight goals and three assists in six games for the Galaxy, and was named MLS Player of the Month for April. “Sometimes in this league, we play a midweek game in front of 6,000 and you think: this stinks. Now with David, these have become real soccer games all the time. Other teams are reaping rewards, too. Now we get to play in real games and take it all seriously because of the spotlight.”
So good have been Donovan’s early season performances that many are already saying that the 26-year-old Californian could break Roy Lassiter’s single-season record of 27 goals set in 1996. Just as Lassiter had Carlos Valderrama as his main assist-man, Donovan has Beckham (3 goals, 4 assists). Donovan adds that the main change he’s made is to his preparation for training and games. “Now it’s become … this is my job and it’s what I do, and I feel it would be like letting myself down if I’m not taking things more seriously,” he said.