Glenn Roeder: "It is a big opportunity for Oguchi at Newcastle and one he was determined to take. I don't have any major concerns about his international career.
Toon Defender Puts International Career On Hold
"But I have spoken to the head of the US Soccer Federation, Pam Perkins, about the game with Mexico. I asked if he could be withdrawn from the squad in Arizona. He will not be getting back from the game until the early hours of Friday morning after a long flight. And I explained to them it would be poor preparation for him to travel through the night with such an important game against Liverpool coming up.
"They agreed and they spoke to the US head coach Bob Bradley about it, who allowed Gooch to withdraw.
"You cannot expect a player to perform well in such a game. But they appreciated Gooch is trying to improve his career here at this time.
"It goes without saying that he has chosen a great club. He has the challenge of trying to get a contract over the next few months.
"He trained with the lads on Thursday and looked big and strong. We have watched him play in a small-sided game and he did very well.
"He had other offers from other Premiership clubs and others in Europe. But he particularly wanted to come here, so he turned them down."