MIAMI (AP) Clint Dempsey is expected to play his first game with the U.S. in nine months when the national team plays a World Cup qualifying match Friday in Guatemala.
The 33-year-old Dempsey was left off the USA roster for two qualifying matches in November. Coach Jurgen Klinsmann cited the need to look at younger players.
''It's not really up to me,'' said Dempsey in reference to not playing last fall. ''It is and it isn't. It is in that you have to keep working hard and playing. But it's up to the coaching staff to make the decisions, and I'm happy to be a part of these important games.