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Eddie Johnson determined to play for U.S.A.

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10:28 AM ET 10.14 | "I think it's an honor and a privilege to put the U.S. jersey back on," Eddie Johnson explained to Goal.com about his first call-up since 2010. "I know all of the hard work that I've done to make this opportunity an reality." This is a far departure for a player who almost quit soccer several months ago. Johnson revealed in an earlier interview with Goal.com that he battled depression after his cousin Darius Giddens was killed in a shooting, and that he contemplated retirement. One of the things that refocused Johnson was staying in touch with some of his former teammates with the national team. Even at his lowest point, Johnson said that Dempsey, Carlos Bocanegra and Steve Cherundolo, among others, kept him on track. "They followed my career throughout [good and bad times]," Johnson explained. "Those guys, they've always believed in me. They told me to keep my head up and get into a positive environment day in and day out."

Goal

Eddie Johnson, Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

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October 15, 2012 08:20 AM ET

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Go kick some Guatemalan butt tonight!

Celtics Rule!

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October 15, 2012 01:52 PM ET

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Originally posted 08:20 AM ET 10.15 by Celtics Rule!

Go kick some Guatemalan butt tonight!

The game is tomorrow night (Tuesday), but I second your sentiments. I am a huge Fulham fan and was crestfallen to see Johnson not crack the starting 11 while in London. That said, I am so very glad that he has found his footing in MLS and is regaining his proper place at the top of the options list for JK and team USA.