Cavan Sullivan Sets MLS Teen Record But Calls His Performance Terrible

Record Breaking Night

Philadelphia Union midfielder Cavan Sullivan made history again on Wednesday night. The 17 year old set up Bruno Damiani for the winning goal in a 3-1 victory against Chicago Fire FC. That set up was his 14th assist of the season.

Sullivan now has seven goals and 14 assists, giving him 21 goal contributions this year. That is the highest total ever recorded by a teenager in a single MLS season. He is currently tied with Lionel Messi for second in league assists, behind only Son Heung Min who has 15. Sullivan has delivered a goal contribution in 10 consecutive league matches, registering 16 in that span.

Critical of His Own Play

Despite breaking the record previously set by Freddy Adu for players under 17, Sullivan was unhappy with his display.

"I played sort of terrible tonight, so I'm not really focused on any records or stats like that, to be honest," Sullivan said. "I'm happy with the win, but I've sort of got to look in the mirror and watch some film and see what I have to do better. I'm not really happy with my personal performance, but, like I said, great win."

Union interim coach Ryan Richter had high praise for the teenager. Richter said it seems like every week something else pops up for Sullivan, adding that he is happy for him and wants him to stay decisive in matches.

Team Form and Big Future

Philadelphia has won eight straight games and holds a club record 14 match unbeaten streak. The team sits in sixth place in the Eastern Conference with five regular season fixtures remaining.

Sullivan has an agreement to join Manchester City when he turns 18. He recently became the youngest player to start a game for the U.S. men's national team since Adu 20 years ago when he debuted at age 16. He followed that up by becoming the youngest goal scorer in national team history with a long range goal against Mexico.

What it means for the next game

Philadelphia Union vs Charlotte FC (MLS, Sat, 17 Oct): Philadelphia Union win 58%, draw 22%, Charlotte FC win 20%; expected goals 2.12 to 1.18. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.

Philadelphia Union vs New England Revolution (MLS, Sat, 24 Oct): Philadelphia Union win 54%, draw 24%, New England Revolution win 21%; expected goals 1.81 to 1.06. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.