The U.S. has been without several stars at this summer's Gold Cup, so which fringe players have stepped up to fight for a place at next year's World Cup?

Although the idea of overloading the midfield makes sense, dropping one of the team’s fastest and most agile players into an unnatural position is puzzling, especially when the midfield of Tillman, Quinn Sullivan and Brendan Aaronson doesn’t offer much in the way of pace.

The CONCACAF Gold Cup is the best chance for players to make a big impression and convince their coaches to be considered for next year's World Cup. Help your team make a run to the final, and you'll be in the mix for 2026.