The next man up mentality Jim Curtin preaches has been embraced by his 2019 Philadelphia Union squad. Whether it be suspensions or last second injuries, every player has to be prepared to step up and make the most of each opportunity.
Now... what if that opportunity coincided with a MLS debut? If you are a Union fan, this is not a new story. Homegrown products Anthony Fontana, Brenden Aaronson, and Mark McKenzie all got their debuts due to injuries. Goalkeeper Matt Freese joined that list over the weekend, coming on for Andre Blake following a groin injury. And while the moment wasn’t as he imagined it, it was still one he will never forget.