What’s the job of an ideal player on a soccer team? Say, as a forward, they are expected to be the driving force, not only contributing to scoring goals but also creating opportunities for their teammates. But who would have thought that this responsibility comes with its challenges, such as raising expectations so high that any dip in performance can lead to facing the jeers? Believe it or not, such has become the case for Christian Pulsic at AC Milan, according to Tim Howard.

Hold on. Wasn’t this the exact job that the 26-year-old had to take on ever since leaving his deemed failed stint at Chelsea, proving his worth every day at the Italian outfit? Yes, that’s still his job, as long as he stays there to the least. While for things to go south would be the last thing Pulisic would want, luckily, he isn’t letting that happen, trying his best to increase his goalscoring tally ever since the beginning of this season.

“What we already know is how heavily Milan rely on him,” began Howard on the latest podcast episode of Unfiltered Soccer. “I think that’s a good thing to have that sort of pressure because it’s easy to perform when you aren’t the main guy. It’s much more difficult when you’re expected to score, you’re expected to perform.”

While fellow co-host Landon Donovan argued that it showcases Pulisic’s strong mentality to keep growing, Tim believes the USMNT skipper is also raising the bar, especially on the domestic front with the best use of his talent. “We expect that from him on the US Men’s National Team but the fact that a world powerhouse, a European powerhouse like AC Milan feels that way about him too, and he continues to deliver, hat’s off to him, well done,” added Howard, heaping praise on Pulisic.

More recently, the former Borussia Dortmund star again found himself on the scoresheet, adding a crucial opening goal during Milan’s 2-3 win over Slovan Bratislava in the UEFA Champions League. That was followed by an assist to his teammate Tijjani Reijnders during the last Serie A win over Empoli. So far, this has brought his tally to 8 goals and 6 assists in over 19 games.

Either way, it’s good to see Pulisic flying high for his domestic side. However, his too-good form has also brought another problem to his doorstep that he has been urged to avoid.

Christian Pulisic advised to avoid taking Premier League return calls

Since the American forward revitalized his career at AC Milan, reports suggest that his former club Chelsea’s arch-rivals, Liverpool, are considering him as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah. However, USA icon Charlie Davies has cautioned Pulisic against making the move, even though Liverpool is currently performing at their best.

“Why would you [go there] at this stage? I’d say, ‘Give me another year. After the World Cup, we’ll talk.’ Because you’re in a perfect situation,” advised the former striker, emphasizing that risking his playing time—especially with the World Cup approaching—is not a move he should even entertain.

Notably, aside from Liverpool, Manchester United and West Ham are reportedly the interested parties as well. However, Tim Howard and Landon Donovan had also earlier reminded Pulisic about him getting the ‘short end of the stick’ at Chelsea.

Either way, more than his transfer speculation, Christian Pulisic shall look out for keeping up with all the expectations from him.