BEAVERTON, Ore. – Back from their first stage of the preseason in Tucson, Ariz., the Portland Timbers took to the adidas Timbers Training Center field today for the first time in 2017. Joining them was a familiar face in Darlington Nagbe.
Nagbe, who had been part of U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Bruce Arena’s January camp in Carson, Calif., was excited to reconnect and see all of his Portland teammates.
“It was good to come back and see the guys that I haven’t seen in a couple months,” he said. “Being back together with the coaching staff as well, not just the players but the guys in the training room, just the whole group. It feels good.”
While away with the national team, the Timbers midfielder received his first-ever USMNT start in a 0-0 draw with Serbia on Jan. 29 and also came on a sub in the U.S.’ 1-0 win over Jamaica on Feb. 3. Both games had special meanings for Nagbe, but with different reasons. Being a part of that starting XI against Serbia in a USMNT shirt was particularly meaningful.
“It was definitely cool standing out there with the starting group and getting my first start. It was something I had thought about to get out there,” he said. “I wish we had won the game but it was still pretty cool.”
With the game against Jamaica, Nagbe was positioned on the left side of the midfield which meant he was often going head-to-head with the Reggae Boyz’ right back: Timbers teammate Alvas Powell.
“It was good,” said Nagbe with a smile. “[Alvas is] my little brother. Whenever I get to play with him or against him or see him, it’s always good so I’m happy to be back with him as well.”
Now back in Portland and preparing for the start of the club’s preseason tournament at Providence Park Thursday against Real Salt Lake (7:30pm PT, TICKETS, Webstream at Timbers.com), Nagbe is turning his focus towards getting both himself and his team ready for the 2017 MLS regular season.
“I think I’m just already reenergized, considering last season,” he said. “I think everyone is after not making playoffs and winning the championship two years ago. I feel like, coming back, everyone’s reenergized just based off of that.”
“I think you can always get better, no matter where you are or what level you are,” he added. “I definitely think that this season, I can get better along with the team. “
