Ahead of Sporting Kansas City's showdown on Saturday with the LA Galaxy, defender and homegrown talent Kayden Pierre sat down with Rob Brenton on the Nutmeg podcast. Pierre has started five of his 12 appearances, tallying 560 minutes in his second season on the first team. He picked up his first career assist on July 13 in Sporting's 1-1 draw at Minnesota United FC.
- Listen: Pierre on the Nutmeg Podcast
Brenton begins the interview by asking Pierre about the club's motivation in the locker room. The right back talks about the mindset of playing to win and sticking together as a team. He mentions the veterans leading the squad and teaching himself and the other younger players throughout the season.
The next topic is personal goals and what Pierre is striving to accomplish in the final 10 games of the 2022 MLS regular season. Pierre discusses how his goals often change and how every chance to play is a chance to prove himself. Pierre, as a 19-year-old wants to show his stuff every time he steps out and display his abilities at all times.
Pierre dives into his relationship with Sporting KC defender Graham Zusi. Pierre, playing on the same side as Zusi is trying to absorb all he can from the club's all-time leader in minutes played. He brings up the competitiveness they both have and how they both push each other to bring their best day in and day out.
Age gets brought up by Brenton as he asks if Pierre ever takes a step back to acknowledge that he is 19 years old. Pierre answers by saying that his parents and friends realize it a lot more than he does. He is more focused on playing, helping the team, working hard and reaching the goals he has set for himself.
Pierre's experience on the United States Youth National Team is one of the final pieces of conversation. Talking about wow moments, Pierre says that every time he has had one of those experiences, he is able to settle in a few minutes later. He is playing the game he loves and has played for years and takes everything in stride.
Fans can find Pierre's interview on Nutmeg Podcast here. The Nutmeg Podcast with Rob Brenton airs every other Thursday with guests ranging from current Sporting KC players and coaches to various front office personnel.
