The 36-year-old USA international, widely regarded as one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League was told to give up on the sport by coaches of other sports in his homeland.

He told Sky Sports: "I was told in no uncertain terms by American football coaches and baseball coaches that I would amount to absolutely nothing if I stuck to playing soccer.

"I would be an idiot for doing it. Now I get to go back and say 'hey look, it worked out!'

"But it is difficult. There must be only 15 players from America who have really made in with long-term careers on the world scene. It's good that the MLS is there now but it is a lower standard.

"Coming over here and playing among the best and learning the industry has helped immensely."