Philadelphia Union attacker Freddy Adu was disappointed to see Peter Nowak leave the club.

Adu admits he returned from Europe to play for the departed coach.

"Right. I mean, I did," Adu told the Delaware County Daily Times. "But I also did because I knew John Hackworth. He was my coach when I was 12 years old in Bradenton. There were a lot of familiar faces and, at the end of the day, that made me want to come here and be a part of this organization and be a part of this team. … At the end of the day, you come here to work.

"Obviously, I know (Nowak) has his stuff to deal with. I just sent him a text wishing him the best and thanking him for what he did for me in my career and thanking him, telling him if he ever needs anything, I'm always here for him."