Celtics defender Auston Trusty returned to action for the USA and scored in a 6-0 win over Haiti, dedicating the goal to his late father in an emotional post-match interview.
Emotional Return for Trusty
Auston Trusty held back tears as he spoke to TNT Sports after scoring for the USA in their CONCACAF Nations League match against Haiti. The Celtic star had not played since October 15, when he featured in the Europa League loss to Benfica, following the passing of his father.
Trusty returned to Lennoxtown but was not in the matchday squad for Celtic's 1-0 win over Kilmarnock before the international break. However, he was called up by USA boss Mauricio Pochettino, who is set to join Manchester United, for the double header with Haiti.
Goal Dedicated to Late Father
The centre-back started the match and netted the opening goal in the 6-0 demolition. Speaking at full-time, he said: "I'll try not to cry. My dad passed away not too long ago, so to come out here and win, and this is my first time playing the game since he passed. So I dedicate the goal to him. I dedicate this performance to him."
He added: "He's my idol and really helped me throughout my journey. So, yeah, this game really means a lot. So I'm really happy to dedicate this goal and match him."
Playing for Pochettino
Trusty also spoke about the team's desire to give Pochettino a suitable send-off before he heads to Old Trafford. The USA are set to face Haiti again in Cincinnati.
"We play for him," he said. "Obviously, he's our gaffer. Obviously, it's sad that he's moving on. So it's a great opportunity that he is moving on into. But we play for him. It's his team, it's his identity, and the mindset is to win every single game, every single match, and no matter the opponent, no matter how many goals you're up, you keep fighting, you keep putting on the score and just do your thing, play your game."
