A day after being ranked 19th in MLS' annual 24 under 24 countdown, it was business as usual for Earthquakes midfielder Fatai Alashe.
After battling in a short-sided game in Tuesday’s training session, Alashe and his teammates migrated to the south end of the field for finishing. Whether he missed the frame or slotted his shot past the goalkeeper, the second-year midfielder continued to work on his craft, a drive that has ultimately rewarded the Michigan State alum with his first appearance on the 24 under 24 list.
“I'm honored,” Alashe admitted. "It’s great for me to be recognized as one of the best young players in the league. I think all of the guys on that list are good players that hopefully have bright futures. It’s just nice to be recognized for the work we do throughout the year.”
Alashe, playing in his second season with San Jose, has recorded two goals and one assist in 23 starts this season. In his rookie campaign in 2015, Alashe made 27 starts in 28 appearances, finishing second in voting for the 2015 MLS Rookie of the Year award. The San Jose defensive midfielder is revered for scoring the opening goal at Avaya Stadium in a thrilling 2-1 win against the Chicago Fire on March 22, 2015.
“It’s been good,” Alashe said about his first two seasons in San Jose. "I’ve obviously learned a lot in my first two years here. It’s a tough transition going from college to professional soccer but credit to my teammates and coaches for bringing be along and I think we have a lot more positive stuff coming and hopefully we can continue to do well together.
“I just want to continue to grow,” Alashe explained. "Obviously, it’s good to be one of the best young players in the league. You’re only under 24 for so long. I need to keep growing as a player so that you’re not only one of the best young players but eventually you can be one of the best players in the league altogether.”
