According to The Guardian, USMNT legend Clint Dempsey strongly refuted recent comments from Canadian coach Jesse Marsch, who claimed that US players had to be asked—or even begged—to sing the American national anthem.

In a pre-match press conference with the Canadian team, Marsch praised his players' patriotism while comparing them to their American counterparts. Marsch served as an assistant coach for the US team from 2010 to 2011, participated in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, and became the first American to coach Canada's men's national team two years ago.

Marsch claimed that US players previously lacked initiative in singing the national anthem, whereas Canadian players were entirely different.

"When I was with the US, I sometimes had to plead with players to sing the national anthem," he said.

"In contrast, Canadian players truly take pride in being Canadian and part of this country, so they sing loudly."

Dempsey, currently a Fox Sports commentator for FIFA World Cup coverage, directly refuted these remarks during a pre-match show.

"Did he really say that? Honestly, it's hard to take that seriously," Dempsey said.

"For me, representing the national team has been an honor since childhood. When the anthem played, I didn't usually sing loudly—I would place my hand over my heart and pray."

"But I've fought for this country. I broke ribs for the US team and returned to the pitch after two heart surgeries."

"I won't accept criticism from someone who switched sides and sang another nation's anthem."

"As my friend Henry would say: mind your own business. Stay in your lane. He may look like he's riding a motorcycle, but first he should focus on taking care of his own team."

After the 2022 FIFA World Cup, US coach Gregg Berhalter's contract expired. Marsch was once considered a strong candidate to succeed him, but the US Soccer Federation ultimately chose to renew Berhalter's contract. Marsch stated that he felt "unfairly treated" in the coaching search process.

Dempsey represented the US at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where Marsch was one of the assistant coaches.

Dempsey is tied with Landon Donovan as the USMNT's all-time leading scorer with 57 goals.

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