SJ INTERVIEW WITH JUSTIN BRAUN – CHIVAS USA STRIKER

in MLS SJ Interviews by Itai — July 24, 2010 at 9:21 pm | 21 comments

We here at Soccer Jones had the chance to sit down with 23 year-old Chivas USA striker, Justin Braun, for an exclusive interview. Braun currently leads his squad in both goals and assists this season as Chivas USA continue their chase for a playoff berth.

In 2008, it was Preki who noticed you while playing in in the George F. Donnelly Cup, an amateur soccer tournament that was played at The Home Depot Center. He later invited you to pre-season training with his squad and eventually extended you a development contract with Chivas USA. What do you think it was exactly that caught Preki’s eye?

To be honest, I am not really sure. I didn’t think that I was having my best game… but I think my work ethic and speed I bring to the game would probably be the two things that he saw. In that game, I was able to get behind some defenders and create some chances.

Last season, you missed a number of games due to a concussion. Have you ever thought about pulling a Petr Cech or an Alecko Escandarian and wear a field helmet just to play it safe?

Well, [laughs] from what I hear, he got a pretty good contract to wear the helmet. But you never know… if someone were to come to me and offer me a deal, I might have to throw it on. But I would definitely prefer not to be wearing one.

So you’re all good now and fully recovered from injury?

Yeah, I’m good but hoping not to take any other knocks to the head anytime soon.

MLS is approaching the All-Star break and you’re mid-way through the season. What are your individual goals and team goals for the second half of the season?

Individually, I made a personal goal to score 10 goals at the beginning of the season. I am hoping to achieve that by the time the season is over and I am currently on pace. If I can keep things going, maybe I can get even a few more than 10. As a team, our goal right now is to make the playoffs. We’re a little behind but as of late, we have been playing some good soccer and we’re starting to find the zone.

Currently, you’re leading Chivas USA in goals and assists. You’re netting more and more goals each season, but which has been your most memorable thus far?

So far for my career, I would probably say my most memorable goal was against Real Salt Lake during the playoffs my first season. We didn’t win the series, but it’s definitely fun to score against your hometown team. The goal brought us back into the picture to try and win the series, but unfortunately, we gave up a late goal and weren’t able to advance. My best goal, however, probably came against Real Salt Lake earlier this season [2010] when I hit a volley over [Nick] Rimando.

Midfielder Sacha Kljestan recently left to join the reigning Belgian champions, Anderlecht. What changes has your squad made to fill the hole Sacha left?

Well, him leaving changes the team as a whole. Sacha was a huge part of our team and kept our offense going but everyone has been stepping up their game to fill the void. Paulo Nagamura is a huge addition. He was with us two years ago and having him back in our lineup is going to help tremendously.

What role did Preki play in your development from the amateur level to the professional level?

He definitely played a huge role in my development. Preki really took me under his wing and molded me into the player I am today. He would hold me after practice and work on the things I needed improvement on. I owe a lot to him. He was the guy who was willing to give me the chance, and I took that chance and made the best of it. I am here where I am today because of Preki.

Growing up playing the striker position, what players did you look up to?

Growing up, I actually didn’t play forward as much as you’d think. That really started in high school. I always liked the way Van Nistelrooy played. I feel like I sort of have the same style as him and try to put myself in good positions to score the goals like he does. As of late, I’ve been watching [Nicklas] Bendtner from Arsenal.

Who is the world’s best striker right now?

That’s a tough question… after looking at World Cup performances, I would have to say David Villa. I think the good thing about him is that he can score and create chances for other people. He’s great with the ball at his feet, and he’s one of those forwards who isn’t just scoring goals, but getting assists and creating chances for others. I enjoy watching Arsenal play though. I really like the controlled game that Arsenal plays.

You’re originally from Salt Lake City but currently reside in sunny Los Angeles. Have your loyalties shifted, or do you still cheer for the Utah Jazz when they come to LA?

I despise the Lakers and I’m sticking with my Jazz. I cheer for anyone who plays the Lakers. I’m not at all a big Lakers fan.

So, what you’re saying is your two favorite teams are the Jazz and anyone who plays the Lakers?

Exactly.