San Jose Earthquakes youngster Niko Tsakiris the 'future of MLS & Europe', says Covelo

San Jose Earthquakes interim head coach Alex Covelo has labeled youngster Niko Tsakiris 'the future of MLS and Europe' following his impressive showing against the LA Galaxy.

Though the Quakes were on the wrong end of a 3-2 defeat to their California rivals, Tsakiris caught the eye with an excellent pass that allowed Cristian Espinoza to win a penalty - a big contribution in his first-ever MLS start.

Tsakiris - who has three goals in five caps for the United States U-20s - also completed 30 of his 34 attempted passes, made five passes into the opposition final third, and made four recoveries. Another fine performance from a youngster quickly growing in stature in Major League Soccer.

"Fantastic, that’s why he played," Covelo said of the teenager's performance against LA. "He is a player that is going to be the future of San Jose, MLS, and maybe Europe. That’s why we put him in. We didn’t put him in because I just woke up this morning and said let’s put in Niko. I think it was a good opportunity for him and he deserves it. He did well."

Explaining his pass to Espinoza, Tsakiris said he was trying to 'keep it simple', but spotted the chance to open up the Galaxy defense that he couldn't pass up.

"As a No.10, and it being my first start, you want to try and create as much as you can but also keep it simple," he said. "The opportunity came and it just felt right. We ended up improving and scoring from it, which was helpful for the group and our momentum. The opportunity was there so I took it."

Having already been eliminated from MLS Cup Playoffs contention, the Quakes close out their regular season with a home clash against Minnesota United and a trip to the Seattle Sounders.

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