Why Pochettino named Tim Ream captain and Chris Richards' fitness

Mauricio Pochettino announced Tim Ream as captain during Saturday's press conference ahead of the friendly with Senegal. Ream was emotional, calling the honor "more than a dream come true" and saying it "isn't going to change what I do or who I am." He added it is "the highest honor for me with this group and for the World Cup," and that he will not take it for granted.

Pochettino explained he chose Ream because he trusts the 38-year-old to behave like a captain whether starting or on the bench. "If you are on the pitch, you are going to have the armband, but if you are not, whether you are on the bench or on the field, I know that you are going to act like a captain, too," he said.

Ream has captained the USMNT in 16 of Pochettino's 23 games and looks set to wear the armband for a few more. Chris Richards arrived at camp after a Conference League triumph, but his ankle remains under evaluation and he will not travel to Charlotte for the Senegal friendly.

United States, Charlotte

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