USA manager Juergen Klinsmann and striker Jozy Altidore have both praised young gun Aron Johannsson.
The 23-year old AZ Alkmaar forward made an impressive 30-minute cameo in Friday's scoreless draw with Scotland, spending most of that time play up front alongside Sunderland's Altidore.
After the match, Klinsmann suggested that the pair could now lead the attacking line together from the start of the match, indicating that it could happen against Austria in Vienna on Tuesday.
"That's something we've been working on. Even from the beginning, when we've been bringing him on as a sub," said Klinsmann.
"Aron is fresh to our team and is getting comfortable in the group. I think everyone sees the qualities that he has. So it's good to see that process of development. Now if we want to field him with Jozy from the start we can. He has the confidence to carry out that role if we ask him to."
Altidore also felt he could link up well with Johannsson who has been in fine form in Holland with 14 goals in all competitions for Alkmaar so far this season.
"I've told people for two years now about his quality," Altidore told reporters. "You can see from his touch that he's so comfortable in tight areas.
"I don't know what position he plays, because he can play up front and in the hole as well. He's such a clever player and creates for others and himself. The game opened up when he came on."
