U.S. Men’s National Team defender Antonee Robinson took another step in his young career on Sunday, earning his Premier League debut for Fulham in the club’s 1-0 defeat at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
With his debut, Robinson became the eighth U.S. international to appear for the Cottagers in the English top-flight – a Premier League record. The 23-year-old followed in the footsteps of Carlos Bocanegra, Clint Dempsey, Eddie Johnson, Kasey Keller, Eddie Lewis, Brian McBride and current club teammate Tim Ream.
Congratulations @Antonee_Jedi on making your #PL debut :us::clap:#WOLFUL #USMNT pic.twitter.com/80oDaKDwcM
— Premier League USA (@PLinUSA) October 4, 2020
After showing well for Fulham through three rounds of Carabao Cup play, Robinson earned the League start on the left, teaming with Ream who plugged in at right center back. The youngster showed plenty of industry up the flank in the first half, registering Fulham’s first shot on goal, and combining well on a number of occasions to advance the attack.
Having dropped its first three Premier League matches, Fulham showed an improved team performance overall on Sunday at Wolves, but still fell to defeat thanks to Pedro Neto’s 56th minute finish.
Despite the loss, Robinson went the full 90 minutes and held his own throughout. The left back finished the game with an 88 percent pass completion rate and 89 touches – the second most of all 14 Fulham players. Defensively, he led the team with four clearances and two blocked shots.
With the international break this week, Fulham are back in action on Oct. 17 when they visit Sheffield United.