The U.S. national team’s striker dilemma for this summer’s World Cup is a familiar topic, recalling a similar narrative from 2022.

Previously, there were doubts about which players would rise to the occasion and capitalize on scoring chances. In Qatar, former coach Gregg Berhalter selected Josh Sargent, Haji Wright, and Jesus Ferreira for the squad. Ultimately, only Wright found the net, scoring accidentally during the dramatic round of 16 against Netherlands.

Now, it’s Mauricio Pochettino’s responsibility to choose the strikers who will best enhance the U.S. team’s offensive capabilities. The manager is expected to opt for three forwards. Folarin Balogun appears to be the frontrunner, while Ricardo Pepi, recovering from an injury, is also likely to secure a spot.

So, where does that leave the remaining contenders? In the English Championship.

Patrick Agyemang is fighting for a World Cup spot. (Photo by Paul Bonser/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Agyemang has consistently elevated his play in England’s second tier. After joining Derby County from Major League Soccer’s Charlotte FC, he has caught the eye of Pochettino with his exceptional performance. Recently, Agyemang scored during a 2-0 victory against Swansea City, bringing his season total to 10 goals with four in his last six matches.

Agyemang’s last call-up was in October, during which he didn’t feature in any match. His previous outing with the national squad occurred during the Gold Cup final against Mexico in July.

With his form, Agyemang stands a solid chance of making the World Cup roster, but he faces competition from another Championship striker. Wright recently netted 13 goals for Coventry City and completed a hat-trick in a significant 3-1 win over Middlesbrough, boosting the team’s promotion hopes. Wright had struggled to score prior, hitting a drought with only two goals in 19 league games.

This performance sets Wright up well for the critical March window, where Pochettino will finalize his choices for the World Cup.

Josh Sargent is a longshot at this point to reach the World Cup. (Photo by David Watts/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

What of Sargent? He hasn’t scored for the national team in six years and missed the last call-ups in October and November. His club situation isn’t favorable either, having been moved to the under-21 squad after expressing a desire to transfer to MLS. For Sargent to secure a spot, he must start scoring once again.

The World Cup roster is expected to be revealed in May, but Pochettino suggests that critical evaluations will occur starting in March, making it a crucial period for the striker roster.