Shanosky hoping to make a big impression

The DC United Academy standout impressed US coach Thomas Rongen at a training camp in San Jose last month to secure his place at the Milk Cup. And the 18-year-old hopes a similar display on the North Coast will boost his career.

"I was very pleased with the camp in San Jose," Shanosky recalled.

"I was happy with my performance and I learned a lot from the coaching staff. Being with the U20 National team is my first experience with the national team and the play is very good. There is a lot of talent within the group of players and it is a pleasure playing with everyone.

"My expectations are high for the team at the Milk Cup.

"It is a very big trip and I always want to win games. We have a talented group of guys and it would be great to get good results.

"Making the team for next year's World Cup is a very big goal for me.

"I am learning a lot as a player and I will keep putting the work in to succeed with U20 national team. I want to represent this country well at all times."

Shanosky joined DC United's academy last summer after growing up in nearby northern Virginia. As a kid he was a fan of DC United so playing for the team has always been a goal.

"I am very much enjoying my time at the club as I have been a fan of the club growing up in the area," he explained.

"My development has been extremely good at United and I couldn't be happier with the staff and the opportunities I have had at the club."

"I play centrally in the midfield as a holding mid. I like to keep possession of the ball and help the buildup going forward. I work hard on the defensive side of the ball and I like to win as much as possible in the air."

For now, Shanosky's priorities lie with the U20 national team in Northern Ireland.

His long term goals revolve around success with the first team either at DC in MLS or perhaps someplace abroad.

"I want to succeed as a professional," Shanosky concluded. "It has always been my goal. I would love to succeed as a professional in the States or somewhere else."

The Americans made a good start to the tournament with a 1-0 win over China on Monday.