Pickering turned pro in Memphis from the FC Dallas Academy last year, scoring his first professional goal with a bicycle kick, making his Memphis debut. But over the last two weeks, he’s shown a balanced play that gives him a chance in the US Youth National Team system.
Turning 18 in January, he is age eligible for the next U20 men’s national team. Pickering’s growth in Memphis could see him become a central figure in that group and a notable future for clubs on the other side of the Atlantic.
Here are some other young players who have stood out from the past week’s game…
Alex Wagoner, New Mexico United – The 18-year-old forward is not officially on the scoresheet but played a key role in New Mexico’s opening two goals in New Mexico’s 3-1 victory over Loudoun United FC last Wednesday.
Fidel Barajas, Charleston Battery – The Mexico Under-17s put in a positive performance overall, helping the Battery extend their lead as the Eastern Conference leader and recording a league-leading fourth assist of the season.
Rocco Rios Novo, Phoenix Rising FC – The 20-year-old Argentinian made four saves to complete his first shutout of the season in a 1-0 win over Orange County SC on Saturday night.
Daniel Rios, Las Vegas Lights FC – The 20-year-old Salvadoran failed to turn the tide in the final 20 minutes, but he recorded his first professional assist and completed 10 of 11 passes in an upbeat performance for Leitz FC.
