Atlanta United's Chris McCann was one of three players at the MLS expansion club's inaugural jersey unveiling on Tuesday at The Tabernacle.
McCann spoke to a few reporters in the U.S. for the first time since signing with the club earlier this summer.
McCann is on loan at Coventry City in England’s League One.
Q: Talk about your time in Coventry.
A: It’s been a really good experience. I played in the league last season and won it. Totally different this season. It’s a new squad, a young squad. The manager’s gone so there’s been a bit of change. But it’s a good experience meeting good guys and a good club with good people. I’ve enjoyed it.
Q: This is our first chance getting to speak to you. What is your preferred position and how did this experience with Atlanta United come together with you signing with them?
A: I’m a midfielder, played midfielder most of my career. I’ve tried out playing centerback sometimes. To be honest, wherever the manager plays me I’m going to be happy to be playing. As long as I’m playing here I’ll be really happy.
As far as the chance to come to Atlanta, (Director of Soccer Operations) Paul McDonough contacted my agent. He did quite a bit of work with my agent when Paul was in Orlando. It came about through that connection. I was over in the States during the summer holidays. Took a trip down and was really impressed by the stadium. Who couldn’t be impressed by the stadium? It’s amazing. The training ground, the plans, the ideas they had going forward, you know it was a no-brainer for me in the end.
Q: When you heard Gerardo Martino was going to be the manager, what were your thoughts and have you had a chance to sit down and talk with him?
A: Who couldn’t be excited about that appointment. He’s an excellent manager of great reputation. He managed one of the biggest clubs in the world in Barcelona and some of the biggest teams. Having a chance to work with him will be excellent and hopefully we can do him justice as well as the club. You saw the fans out there tonight. Hopefully everything will come together.
Q: Have y’all played in his preferred systems and how does it fit with your skill set?
A: It’s difficult to say what formation he’s going to bring in here, but I think the ideas that the club has and the players they are going to bring in and the coach sets the bar really high. I think he will play good, attractive football.
We’re not here to make up the numbers in the league. We are here to do the best we can and try to win it, you know?
Q: I’m sure you’ve heard how physical MLS can be, is that something that you are preparing yourself mentally for?
A: I think while playing in England, the Championship is one of the more physical leagues. You can’t just stroll around the league. It is quite a tough league. So, coming here I’ve heard about how every player is an athlete. They are quick and strong. I’m sure I’ll be OK going into the league but I want to prepare myself as best I can and come in in the best shape I possibly can.
Q: I’m sure y’all have done kit announcements before. How did this compare and how was it being in front of Atlanta United’s fans for the first time?
A: It was crazy. I’ve never experienced nothing like that in my life before. That for me was an experience I won’t forget. It was amazing. Just to see the fans come out and the expectation and the excitement.
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