USA striker Edson Buddle feels he has benefitted from playing alongside David Beckham at club level.
American strike ace thanks club team-mate for words of advice
USA striker Edson Buddle feels he has benefitted from playing alongside David Beckham at club level.
Both men are on the books of MLS outfit Los Angeles Galaxy, and have established quite a bond during their time working together.
Former England captain Beckham has been only too happy to offer advice to his determined team-mate, and Buddle has lapped up the words of wisdom.
His efforts are certainly paying off, as Buddle has forced his way into the United States set-up and is about to take in his first World Cup finals.
Two goals in a 3-1 victory over Australia on Saturday have put the 29-year-old in contention for a starting berth, giving national coach Bob Bradley a welcome selection dilemma.
Buddle is delighted to have forced his way into the reckoning at such a crucial time, but admits without the help of Beckham he might never have made it this far.
Influence
"He's my Galaxy team-mate and a friend. He's a good pal and, hopefully, I will see him when we play England (on Saturday)," said Buddle.
"David helps you understand the commitment and mindset it takes to get to the top.
"He has given me a lot of good advice and has been a massive influence on me. To have a quality player like David at Galaxy, you kind of think to yourself 'if you can't score with David on your team serving up balls, then you might as well forget it'. Fortunately, it has gone my way and I have been able to play with him.
"David's big advice on my game has been to tell me to keep moving and to get on the end of crosses into the box. That's very important for a striker.
"Obviously, I am absolutely delighted to have scored my first senior international goals.
"Hopefully, that has given the coach a bit of a headache. It is going to take time to get a proper understanding with strike partners, but we don't have time because the real business is upon us now."
