Just before the Philadelphia Union’s showdown with D.C. United, we were able to chat to the teams Captain Maurice Edu about all things Union. From the Sons Of Ben to the US Open Cup and even who he feels has stood out this season! Check out the interview below.
First of all we just wanted to say Thank you for taking the time to talk to us Maurice and say congratulations on the recent U.S. Open Cup triumph over the New York Red Bulls, what was the atmosphere like in the changing room like after the game?
Thank you, but to answer your question: Exhaustion haha. Honestly, it was pure excitement. Everyone came in there knowing they’d given their all for 120 minutes and left it all on that pitch for the team. To win the game despite having to play down a man for 90 minutes was unbelievable and to have such a large fan presence there was amazing. We truly earned that victory.
You fought hard out there for 120 minutes plus enduring a penalty shootout, what words did you say to your teammates before the start of extra time and then after the game?
Giving up that goal in the dying seconds was a blow and would’ve been the death of many teams to be honest. I just told the guys we’d put a lot into this game and that the previous 90 minutes were irrelevant, all that mattered now was what we did in the next 30. I told them how confident I was in them and how much I believed in our group and how we had to dig deep and help each other, but that we were going to leave the pitch with a win.
After the game, I told them I was proud of them. The character they all showed – the belief and the willingness to keep fighting even when it seemed impossible. I told them that performance represents what this group is really capable of.
You said on twitter after the match that you always had 11, just how important is the support of such passionate fans in games like that?
The support of our fans is invaluable! Whether home or away, when you have support like we do, it can be the difference in a result. In that game especially, the atmosphere and support they showed kept us going and motivated. Their presence and cheers far outweighed that of the rest of the stadium! We always knew they were there backing us and we can’t thank them enough for riding with us through the ups and down!
The Union made the final of the U.S. Open Cup last year, is there a feeling of unfinished business as the team head into the Semi’s for the second year running?
It’s weird because yes, we feel like we could’ve won last year’s Cup. This is a new year however, and I like to approach it as such. The loss last year is definitely motivation for us and we have to use the experience we gained last year during that journey to try and give us an edge this time around. We want to win, not only for this club and the guys in the locker room, but for our fans and this city!
We’re going to talk about the MLS for a moment, now your role this season has developed into playing a much more defensive one, at times playing at Centre-back, how has the transition been for you?
The transition has gone pretty well. I feel comfortable playing in the back. I think I can have the ability to impact and lead this team from either there or in midfield. And I’ll always play where I’m asked to.
Is there a different mentality required to play in the Defence as opposed to the Midfield?
Yeah there’s definitely a difference in shifting between the two positions. When you play on the back line, you’re the last line before the goalkeeper, and as such, you can’t take any risks. You have to be tuned in mentally because a game can change in a split second. Also, you need to be more vocal and lead the guys around you.
Which role do you prefer to play?
I prefer winning. If I play midfield and we win, I’m happy. If I play as a defender and we win, I’m happy.
The season has been a roller-coaster so far for the Union, what are the hopes for the second half of the season?
2015 Open Cup Champions. Playoffs. We need to put together a good final stretch and show consistency to make the playoffs. Do I think its a big ask? Yes, but that’s because we didn’t start off the first half very well. Do I think it’s possible? Yes of course. The games against Red Bulls and D.C. United before that – both in the Cup – show what this group is capable of when we believe. If we can have that same belief and work ethic, I don’t care who we line up against, I’m confident we can win.
As the on field leader of this team, what sort of things do you do/say to keep the team motivated if they concede a goal early on?
I’m a very passionate and competitive guy especially on the field. I try to motivate and encourage guys but I also challenge my teammates. I challenge them to hit the standards we know we’re capable of. Sometimes its more vocal, sometimes I try and make a play that guys can feed off and energize the group or give them a lift. Mistakes happen though, it’s more so about how you react to them and the next play.
We’ve seen your leadership skills on the field, but does that continue when the final whistle blows?
Probably a better question for my teammates.
You guys have beaten some of the biggest names in the league this season whilst quite often having a few players unavailable due to injury, is that a testament to the character of the team?
It is but that’s life. Injuries are something that you can’t always control. What it does is test the depth of your group. If somebody is unavailable due to injury or suspension, it’s an opportunity for another player. We always say everyone in this squad will have a role to play at some point so it’s vital you make sure you’re prepared to step in when your name is called. Credit to our guys, we’ve done a pretty good job of that this year with guys coming in and making an impact.
What makes the Philadelphia Union so special?
The fans. I’ve never heard of a story like that of the Sons of Ben. It truly is something special and unique and I can’t wait to reward them with a trophy!
Is there a particular game on the remaining schedule you’re looking forward to?
2015 U.S. Open Cup Final and first game of the playoffs. These are the games I want to play in. These are my goals.
As captain of the team, you are their leader when out on the field. Is there a particular player who’s performances have stood out for you so far this season?
I think at different moments of the season, different guys have stepped up and helped this team. I think what C.J. has done after coming back into the team must be applauded. He has to be one of the most in-form strikers in the league right now. Brian Carroll began the season not starting, but once his name was called he answered. His consistency and willingness to work tirelessly and do the dirty running that most don’t notice or appreciate is something I can fully appreciate every game.
You also have a very rich international career, just talk us through what it meant for you to play in the 2010 World Cup.
It meant everything to me. I dreamt of that day as a kid and sometimes it seemed like it would only be a dream but I always kept believing. By the grace of God and hard work, I was able to make it a reality and it’s an experience I will never forget. Any chance I get to represent my country is a humbling experience and one I don’t take for granted, but to do it on the largest stage was unreal. To have my mom and brother also attend and share that experience with me made it that much more special.
What does the future hold for Maurice Edu?
The future, well I’ll keep this answer soccer based. Near future, I want to win! I want to bring success to this franchise and Philly. I’ve been fortunate to win league titles and cups abroad, but I haven’t been so fortunate domestically so I want to change that.
Thank you very much for taking the time to talk to us and best of luck for the remainder of the season.
