Freddy Adu has admitted there were 'crazy' times when he emerged on the soccer scene when he was a teenager.
The Philadelphia Union forward was dubbed the 'American Pele' when he was scoring goals in Major League Soccer as a 14-year old for DC United and was tipped for massive things in Europe.
Upon returning to MLS after a four-year jaunt with the likes of Benfica, Monaco, Belenenses, Aris Thessaloniki and Caykur Rizespor, the 22-year old has spoken of those days when things really kicked off.
"Obviously I wasn't prepared for any of that," Adu told Philadelphia Sportsweek. "I was 14. I was just taking everything day-by-day.
"It was crazy. It really was, but I also thought it was cool at the time. I really enjoyed it. It was a big accomplishment in my life. It was good for my family and that was all I really cared about at that time. I was happy about things."
He added: "Obviously, other people have their expectations of you. But you have to have your own expectations of yourself.
"My goal from the beginning was to get to Europe and hopefully play in one of top two leagues in the world [in Spain or England]."
Adu has marked his return to MLS with two goals in 10 appearances as the Union look towards the play-offs and admits it has been an enjoyable experience.
"So far, I have really enjoyed being here," Adu said. "[Coming back to MLS] was something I really wanted to do.
"It's great playing in Philadelphia with the new stadium, great fans and being close to home. It's been amazing so far."
