USMNT legend Tim Howard says 'fans have every right to be frustrated' with Christian Pulisic leaving the national team ahead of the Mexico match to manage his workload and rejoin with AC Milan. "Pulisic is our biggest player, our best player - and this was no normal USMNT camp. It marked the start of Pochettino’s reign and the countdown to the 2026 World Cup. No one can question his commitment to the USMNT and no one can deny that he needs to look after his body. But even if he is not playing, he should still be there - to create the culture and set an example. I have been a senior player and a big personality in the locker room. I demanded a lot of people and what I found? The moments to show your gravitas tend to come off the pitch. There were times when I was injured or on the bench. I had 100-odd caps by then but I would carry the water. Or I’d pick the kits up off the locker room floor, while players making their second or third appearance were in the shower. They were small gestures that carried an important message: when we’re in deep and I’m demanding something of you, it’s nothing I would not do myself. That’s what makes a good leader. That’s when you build trust and culture. Not by leaving camp. But by supporting the team with words and actions. But at some point Pochettino, Pulisic and the USA have to flex their muscles and tell Milan: This is how it’s going to go down. We need Christian - to play or just to be around."