With Johnny Cardoso's recent outstanding performance in Real Betis, the American midfielder has once again sparked a discussion on whether he should be included in the US national team's starting lineup. Although he was originally selected for the training list of the CONCACAF Nations League, he withdrew due to injury and eventually missed the opportunity to practice and play with the team.

However, legendary US national team goalkeeper Tony Meola recently told the CBS Sports Golazo America program that if Cardoso can continue to maintain his current performance at Betis, coach Mauricio Pochettino will have "no choice" to include him in his starting lineup.

Meola said: "Is he ready to start? Maybe not yet, but if Pochettino wants to arrange a double combination in midfield, then there is no doubt that Tyler Adams is an unshakable member. As for the other position, is it Weston McKennie or Cardoso? It depends on the state."

"Cardosso's main problem is repeated injuries. Every time he is playing well, he gets a minor injury. However, he really played well at Betis."

At the same time, Meola also supports another American player who is in hot form, Haji Wright, and believes that the striker has the quality to enter the national team.

Meola said: "He definitely deserves a chance. Although he was not selected in the 60-man squad, it was because his injury recovery was later than expected. But before the National League, he just returned and scored a hat trick. Everyone said, 'Haji Wright must be recalled quickly'."

"He has outstanding physical conditions, which are different from other forwards. He has played as a right winger, a left winger and recently a center forward in Coventry. His versatility will provide more possibilities for the national team's lineup. In the youth team, he actually played mainly as a right winger."

"There is a lot of competition for the No.9 position now, and the only thing Wright can do is keep scoring goals - this is what he can control. I believe he will appear in the next national team training camp."

At this stage, both Cardoso and Wright are expected to win a place under Pochettino with their performance. The Argentine is still looking for a stable and efficient starting lineup, which provides valuable opportunities for the two players.