Noel Buck is not happy with U.S. Soccer, and he’s not afraid to say it.
One day after he accepted a call-up to England’s U-19 squad, the New England Revolution midfielder charged that the American federation hadn’t “given me the time of day.”
Buck is in the midst of a breakout campaign with the Revs, making his international future a pertinent talking point. The 18-year-old was born and raised in the U.S. but is eligible for England and Wales through his father.
Though the midfielder did get a call-up from the U.S. U-19 side in July, he’s been bypassed by the U-20s on multiple occasions, including the World Cup earlier this year.
Buck sent a message prior to Saturday’s game against Austin FC, showing up at Gillette Stadium in a retro England kit. He had plenty more to say after the game, as well.
“A little retro action.” 🦌 pic.twitter.com/b1EsAirqeL
— New England Revolution (@NERevolution) September 2, 2023
Asked by the Blazing Musket if he should have gotten more chances with the U.S. at this point, Buck didn’t hold back.
“I feel like they haven’t really given me the time of day to be completely honest,” he said. “And when I get called to an England camp, you know, it’s an honor for me.
“Wearing this [England] shirt isn’t a symbol of like, screw the U.S. because it’s not. They just haven’t given me the time of day and I want to have a good time and really learn something there.”
Earlier in the week, USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter spoke highly of Buck after naming his roster for September friendlies against Uzbekistan and Oman.
“He’s been great. He’s been really strong,” said Berhalter. “I have spoken to him. There has been interest from England, which I think is great. Great achievement, when you have a country like England looking at you.
“I’ve communicated with him, told him that we see him as a player that can compete to make the World Cup team in 2026, based on what he’s doing now.”
Buck acknowledged the conversation with Berhalter, but didn’t feel that communication was sufficient.
“I think besides just talking a bit with Gregg, the U.S. haven’t really talked to me a whole lot,” he said. “You know, there’s been some talks about U-19s a year ago, but other than that, not a whole lot. England have really shown some interest and I’m glad to take it.”
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