Pulisic has joined up with the US squad after a tumultuous start to the Premier League season at Chelsea which saw manager Thomas Tuchel sacked after just six games. The 24-year-old US talisman has also struggled to nail down a starting spot for the Londoners, making just one league start.

Nevertheless Berhalter said Thursday he fully expects Pulisic to flourish at the World Cup in Qatar, where the USA face Wales, England and Iran in the group stage. "I think Christian is an ultimate competitor," Berhalter told reporters on a video conference call.

"He just turned 24 on Sunday, and it seems like he's been in football for the last decade. You know he's seen it all, done it all. I think the World Cup will be a great moment for him as a player" Berhalter added.