2010 MLS SuperDraft number one pick Omar Salgado admits his debut season in North America's top flight has been a steep learning experience.
The recently turned 18-year old has struggled for Vancouver Whitecaps, starting just five games, coming off the bench on eight occasions and sitting out 16 full games as a substitute.
Salgado admits it has been tough but also feels he plays his best when he is consistently on the pitch.
"It's been difficult to adapt. Sometimes there are good moments, sometimes there are bad," he said.
"The hardest part about it is the mental aspect and trying to keep up your motivation.
"I wish I could play two or three games consecutively and get the rhythm of the game. It's difficult to play every four or five weeks.
"Trying to make a difference in 90 minutes is a little difficult coming straight in from training every day."
However, Whitecaps coach Tom Soehn says the club has been kind to Salgado but feels he will certainly develop into a top player.
"It's a long-term project," he said. "In a lot of respects he's got more minutes than a lot of teams would give him.
"He's got a world of upside. If he continues to work hard he can reach that upside."
