NASHVILLE, TN – On Saturday night, Nashville SC's first-choice attacking group could get on the pitch for the first time together.
Since joining Nashville in the summer transfer window, Tunisian World Cup veteran Elias Saad hasn't been on the field at the same time as Hany Mukhtar, Sam Surridge, and Cristian Espinoza. Ahead of Saturday's match against Inter Miami, Nashville head coach BJ Callaghan spoke about how Saad could fit in with their star-studded attack.
"I think for Elias and Hany, the whole idea is how many more guys can we get in between the lines to find the space between the midfield and the backline of the opponent," Callaghan said. "I think both those guys can operate really effectively there."
Saad has made four appearances in gold since his move to Music City, setting up one goal in 241 minutes on the pitch. He's primarily played on the left side of midfield, a role that has typically been occupied by Alex Muyl, Ahmed Qasem, or Warren Madrigal. While playing as a wide attacker in possession, this player has had to pince into a more central role against the ball, forming a three-man midfield.
"I also think Elias has, as we get closer to the goal, the ability to go one-on-one," said Callaghan. "Even in the second half, you [against Club León] you saw him get a little bit isolated in a wide area and take a player on one-versus-one. We'll continue to build that as an element to make sure that we continue to find that for him."
Nashville will kick off their Supporters' Shield clash against Inter Miami tonight at 7:30 pm at Geodis Park.
SixOneFive Soccer Staff
