As a goalkeeper, you have so much time back there where you're alone, and you're talking to yourself in your head.
I've had my stint at Columbus. My family has been right by my side throughout, and that's exactly what I wanted. I found my happiness.
I think it will be good to be in Columbus and get pushed there and then go overseas. If there is a loan, it will be good to get comfortable and get games and get used to the pace of European soccer.
There are days where I'm at the facility almost all day long. It's definitely demanding mentally and physically.
Any success that I have had as a goalkeeper in MLS with Crew SC is a testament to those around me who have pushed me - teammates, coaches, staff, family, friends and supporters.
It's an amazing life, don't get me wrong. But being a professional athlete, is… is not as glamorous as everybody sets it out to be.
Columbus is considered my second home, so I definitely miss Columbus for many different reasons. I definitely miss the good times I had there and I miss the guys for sure.
Everyone has different paths. I've been lucky to have a good support system - my family, friends and colleagues to keep me grounded and humble and to keep working hard. I never give up.
I watched the Premier League every weekend with my dad - the highlight shows, everything.
There's a lot of nerves, a lot of excitement, a little bit of sadness leaving the chapter in Columbus.
I went to Germany taking a chance on seeing what Europe was like, and taking on that new challenge. Obviously it wasn't for me at the time, but I always had that goal to come back to the U.S. and work hard and hopefully go back to Europe.
I can look forward to that. Getting back over to Europe and playing at a little bit higher level, then hopefully becoming a leader for the national team.