Christian Pulisic Delivers Chelsea Verdict Ahead Of Charlotte FC Clash

Christian Pulisic is relishing playing in America as Chelsea prepare to play their second game of pre-season against Charlotte FC.

The 23-year-old played 45 minutes, coming on at half-time, versus Club America at the weekend in Las Vegas as Chelsea came out 2-1 winners against the Liga MX side. 

Now the Blues are in North Carolina for their second fixture of their United States tour, playing Charlotte FC who are currently 8th in the table. 

A Bank of America Stadium view in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Alamy)

Pulisic will be hoping for more minutes on Thursday morning (UK) to build his fitness and stake a claim to be in Thomas Tuchel’s starting XI for their Premier League opener against Everton on 6 August. 

The USMNT star is looking forward to heading to the Bank of America stadium, however is heading there with some unfamiliarity despite knowing some of their players.

"I am really excited to be back in Charlotte,” said Pulisic ahead of the game on Chelsea’s opponents in North Carolina.  

“I think it's cool to see how far along the sport has come here and the MLS team, getting to play against them will be a great experience.

Christian Pulisic during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on August 14. (Alamy)

"So I'm thrilled to be back here with Chelsea, back in the States, and get the chance to play here again."

He added: "I know a few of the guys, there is nobody I would say I'm most familiar with.

"I think it will be a good test and fun to play against some American guys, America competition. A new MLS team is going to be good for us to experience."

Pulisic has been joined by more Americans at Chelsea with the consortium, led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, that took over the club being made up of largely Americans. 

"I've had conversations with the owners, obviously,” continued the Chelsea winger.

“It's cool having American guys around and getting to meet them and have conversations.

"Right now, I'm focused on what's going on at Chelsea, to be honest, and pre-season.

"Obviously, being in America is amazing and we're just excited to get the season started.

"Truthfully, I'm just very focused on how I can help this team right now and how I can continue to do that in the future."

Pulisic is likely to get minutes against Charlotte FC, but will face competition for a role in the attack with new arrival Raheem Sterling in line to make his first appearance since joining the club from Manchester City, Tuchel confirmed.