The Soccer Show: Defender Henry Kessler sees Revs “making progress”
The New England Revolution certainly don’t need to be reminded that they’re in a tough spot after the first month of the 2024 Major League Soccer season. The bounces have not gone their way through four winless games in the league, as the Revolution find themselves on the bottom of the MLS table entering today’s 2:00 p.m. clash with Chicago Fire FC.
The good news is there is still ample time for New England to right the ship in the young 2024 season. Defender Henry Kessler, who joined DJ Bean on “The Soccer Show” this morning, said it starts with carrying the right mentality.
“I think we’re making progress and we’re going to continue to make progress,” Kessler said. “This team will get better, and we will have better results.
“We reflect during the week, try to work on the things we didn’t do well, and try to do more of the things we did do well.”
With Caleb Porter leading the group, the Revolution have full confidence they will start collecting better results soon. As of Saturday, Porter will have 300 games of MLS coaching experience to draw upon, one of only six active coaches in the league to reach that mark.
“It’s been great. Caleb is an intense guy,” Kessler said. “He’s tactical and I feel like we are more organized this year. The results in the league haven’t shown it thus far, but we’re going to get there. We’ve advanced two rounds in [Concacaf] Champions Cup. I think we’re doing well there. I think the team is heading in the right direction.”
Kessler, now in his fifth season in MLS, is back at full strength after battling through a hamstring injury that limited the University of Virigina product to just nine MLS appearances last season. The 25-year-old center back has posted 90-minute performances in New England’s last three matches in league play.
“I’m one of the guys that really enjoys training,” Kessler said. “I enjoy the grind, the competition in training that you see. In games as well, but I really enjoy training. It was something I really missed while I was out as well as playing in the games. I definitely appreciate my good health currently. I did before, but perhaps it’s even a greater appreciation now.”
Kessler echoed words of wisdom he’s received from Porter about enjoying his return to the pitch.
“It’s something Caleb talks about, too,” Kessler said. “Make sure you enjoy every day, don’t live with regrets. Make sure you’re giving it your all and bringing the intensity you have to. So, yes, there’s a great appreciation for all that.”
New England’s match against Chicago Fire FC kicks off at 2:00 p.m. this afternoon. Listen live on 98.5 The Sports Hub HD2 with Brad Feldman and Rachel Wood calling the match.
