Sacha Kljestan is coming into 2017 with high hopes for club and country.
After taking part in U.S. Men's National Team January Camp on Wednesday, Kljestan said he is looking forward to getting back on the field and to start playing games again.
"This offseason was too long for me," the midfielder said. "I was getting very bored at home."
Kljestan heads into the year with a chance to make an impact on the national team, with new head coach Bruce Arena at the helm.
"Everyone is starting with a blank slate and really wants to be part of this team. Every guy here is going to be fighting extra hard for a spot," Kljestan said. "I think I have a lot to contribute. It gives me a lot of confidence and a lot of aspirations."
Arena said after practice that the Red Bulls midfielder will get a "good, hard look" at camp and in the team's upcoming friendlies.
As for his club, Kljestan said he's looking forward to February 22, when New York takes the field for their first compettive game of the year, against Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinals.
"I’m very happy that we have that Champions League game to start us off on Febraury 22," he said. "I think I’ll be fully fit and ready to go."
And despite the end of the 2016 season ending on a sour note, Kljestan is ready to take the field with his team this year.
"We still have a very good core group of guys and I’m very excited about our chances in 2017," he said.
