The next generation of U.S. men's national team players is ready for the international stage. On Thursday, U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino named his roster for upcoming friendlies, mixing veterans and young players.

There is excitement in seeing 16-year-old Philadelphia Union attacker Cavan Sullivan, Red Bull New York midfielder Adri Mehmeti, and Crystal Palace attacker Zavier Gozo. Further back are Lyngby Boldklub goalkeeper Diego Kochen, Union center back Neil Pierre, and right back Frankie Westfield.

Veterans like Palace defender Chris Richards, Tyler Adams, and Ricardo Pepi will guide the youngsters. "We need the player to show the good examples," Pochettino said.

With the World Cup cycle starting, now is the time to see how these young players fare. Sullivan has been arguably the best player in MLS not named Lionel Messi, with six goals and eight assists. Pochettino said Sullivan "deserves all the praise that he's getting."