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Dempsey Fires Back at Marsch Over Anthem Remarks
12 Jun
Summary
- Clint Dempsey refuted Jesse Marsch's claims about US players being reluctant to sing.
- Dempsey stated his pre-game routine was prayer, not singing the anthem.
- Marsch's comments were made before Canada's World Cup match on June 12.
Former USMNT player Clint Dempsey has responded strongly to comments made by Canada's manager, Jesse Marsch, regarding American players' engagement with the national anthem. Marsch had suggested that US players sometimes required persuasion to sing during pre-game ceremonies.
Dempsey, speaking on pre-match coverage, expressed disbelief at Marsch's remarks. He detailed his personal pre-game ritual, which involved prayer rather than singing, emphasizing his commitment and sacrifices for the US national team. Dempsey also questioned Marsch's authority to comment, referencing his past association with Canadian anthems.
Marsch made his initial statement while highlighting the pride of his Canadian squad, composed of players from diverse backgrounds. He contrasted this with his perceived experience in the US, where he claimed players were reluctant to sing. Canada's World Cup campaign began with a match on Friday, June 12, against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto.
