Pulisic sends rivals message after welcome injury boost

The Chelsea man opened the scoring in the 74th minute as the USMNT picked up a crucial win over their rivals

Christian Pulisic returned from injury for the USA on Friday night with a decisive goal against fierce rivals Mexico in Cincinnati.

The Chelsea man hadn't featured for his country since September, but he came back onto the pitch to roaring applause and immediately broke the deadlock.

A smart run into the box and an inch-perfect cross from Timothy Weah allowed Puliisic to steal in front of his marker and knock home the header.

Weston McKennie doubled the lead not long after, with the USA holding on to secure the bragging rights against their rivals and a crucial three points in their bid to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Pulisic was clearly in a playful mood ahead of the match, as after his goal he revealed a message underneath his shirt that said 'Man in the Mirror'.

The phrase was a dig aimed at Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who has said in the build-up to the match that the USA wanted to "mirror" their football image after El Tri.

"I was really happy to come in and help my team win this game," said Pulisic after the game.

"To break the deadlock; to get the first goal was huge, we were so happy with that performance today."

When asked about the message on his shirt, Pulisic tried to downplay the incident, he told reporters: "I think you guys know the message, I don't want to speak on it too much, it's not a big thing, not trying to cause controversy."

Pulisic's ankle injury has left him out of most of Chelsea's season so far, with the 23-year-old so far limited to just four appearances in all competitions for Thomas Tuchel's side.

He recently came off the bench in the Blues' 1-1 draw with Burnley, and his latest goal for his country should be good news for Chelsea fans who will want to see him back firing for them as soon as possible.

This article first appeared in Football.London.