Impact Media met defender Eric Miller a few minutes after he was selected by the club at the 2014 SuperDraft. Read what he had to say about his selection, his style of play and Andrea Pirlo.
You are the Impact’s first selection of the 2014 SuperDraft. How did you feel after your name was called?
Eric Miller : I’m super excited. This is a fantastic opportunity to play for the Impact. It’s a fantastic MLS club. I can’t wait to get out there and contribute for the club.
What do you know about Montreal?
Not that much unfortunately, but everyone I know who’s been there says it’s a beautiful city and there’s a lot of history. I know they speak French, so I’m hoping to learn a little of the language once I’m out there.
What type of player is Eric Miller?
I’m a hardworking, blue collar defender who works his tail off for his team. I’m fairly technical for a defender, so I like to get forward and contribute offensively. I’ll do whatever it takes to help my club win.
If you were to say your game was modeled after a player, who would that be?
Any of the modern fullbacks. You can look at Dani Alves (FC Barcelona), but I would say I don’t go forward as much as he does. DeAndre Yedlin (from the Seattle Sounders FC) would be a good example in MLS. I’ve played with him with the US U-20s.
How did you get started playing soccer?
Actually, I was supposed to play teeball when I was five, but the coach never called me for tryouts in Minnesota. My mother signed me up for soccer and its gone OK for me since then.
Favourite player?
Andrea Pirlo right now, he’s the maestro. I love watching him play.
Favourite team outside of MLS?
I would say Arsenal. I started watching soccer when I was younger, when the Invicibles were around, so that got me started.
Any connections with current Impact roster players?
Calum Mallace is from Minnesota. He probably won’t remember this, but I played against him in high school while I was with Woodbury.
