Christian Pulisic opens up on lack of playing time at Chelsea

Christian Pulisic says he won’t let his benching with Chelsea affect his play for the U.S. national team as they prepare for a match against Cuba.

Pulisic said on Wednesday that he feels “very confident” in his game and said his form is the best it’s ever been, despite scant playing time of late.

“I feel the best I ever have. I feel very confident in my game. I’m not going to let any of that affect me,” Pulisic said on Wednesday.

“I feel very strong, and I’m really looking forward to this game (on) Friday.”

The 21-year-old midfielder has been mostly a spectator in his first season in the Premier League, playing in just one league match since August — a 10-minute stint on Sunday during which he contributed an assist.

Pulisic has previously voiced frustration with his playing time under Chelsea manager Frank Lampard but declined to elaborate on those feelings Wednesday, saying he’s focused on the national team.

The United States will play Cuba on Friday in Washington and then visit Canada in Toronto on Tuesday, their opening two matches of the CONCACAF Nations League.