Cavan Sullivan's hot streak comes with one surprising stat as USMNT decision looms

Cavan Sullivan is currently on a seven-match goal-contribution streak after netting twice and providing an assist in the Philadelphia Union's 5-0 victory over San Diego FC. The 16-year-old has the attention of head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who will announce the next United States Men's National Team (USMNT) roster on Thursday.

Despite Sullivan's impressive performances, his pass-completion rate of 65% is among the lowest in MLS, according to a September 8 Guardian analysis. Philadelphia Union, however, employ a more direct playing style, which seems to suit Sullivan's abilities. David Márquez, a Spanish football analyst, has developed a system called M-PORT that aims to estimate how a player's output might shift at different clubs based on factors like team possession, speed, and strength.

Márquez emphasizes that scouts must consider a player's potential in different contexts, rather than relying solely on traditional scouting methods. The move to Manchester City, when Sullivan turns 18, could further highlight the impact of his surroundings on his numbers, as the Premier League team leads the league in possession.

Márquez believes that scouting talent should involve evaluating a player's decision-making abilities, movement without the ball, and whether their strengths align with the team's needs. Cavan Sullivan has already demonstrated how his environment can affect his opportunities; he faced criticism from former coach Bradley Carnell in March, who suggested that the teenager may not fit into his system.

However, interim coach Ryan Richter has given Sullivan a bigger role, leading to his recent breakout.