B/R Exclusive: Catching Up With Danny Karbassiyoon

6. How did you feel when the time came for you to leave Arsenal?

Seeing as Arsenal was my first club and my release from them would be in essence my first form of "rejection" of my career, I didn't really know how to take it. When you think about it, though, players get released every year and it doesn't mean you failed in anyway. Making it in the first team at Arsenal Football Club is incredibly difficult and loads of players have gone on to have brilliant careers after being released or let go by Arsenal.

I left with my head held high, happy to know I played for Arsenal's first team, was the first American to score for the club, and ready to find a new challenge.

7. Your career was unfortunately cut-short due to a knee injury—how has your knee been since you retired from the game?

My knee has definitely seen better days! I just had surgery in February where a lot of work was done and I'm hoping that within a year I'll be able to jog again and be somewhat comfortable again.

8. Which players influenced you the most at Arsenal? You played with the likes of Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira and Dennis Bergkamp—any words of encouragement which they gave you that you would like to share with us?

My favorite player at Arsenal was Robert Pires. The first team players are very encouraging to the younger kids coming through because they know how tough it is. I'd have to say that actions speak louder than words in most sports, though. Just watching Pires on a Saturday at Highbury was incredible, and I learned a lot from watching his movement, his attitude, and most of all his ability on the ball.

9. You're still involved in the game—does that satisfy you in some way?

It is nice to still be involved in soccer. I love this game, and although its hard at times to watch because I wish I could play so much, I still enjoy it. I'm hoping that once my knee has recovered I'll be able to at least kick around a little just to keep somewhat sane!

10. What is the support like for Arsenal in the USA?

Arsenal's support is huge in the US. The official fan club here is called Arsenal America and it covers both the US and Canada. Even during my playing days, I remember them coming over to the reserve games and cheering both Frank Simek and I on. I've met a lot of the members and I'm glad to say they are just as crazy and passionate as the London based Arsenal fans. They recently made me the "Honorary President" of the fan club and it really is an honor to be associated with such a great organization.

I'd like to thank Danny profusely for taking his time out and answering all those questions. It is heartening to see that he is still involved in football.

Let's hope that Danny's knee condition improves—and let's also hope that he finds players with great quality in the USA and Mexico.

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