OMNISPORT

The United States men's national team is set to battle against Colombia on Friday to kick off the Copa America Centenario with Fabian Johnson deployed as a defender, even if that isn't his favorite position.

Having spent time as a right back, left midfielder and left back for the USMNT throughout his career, Johnson spent most of the season as a left midfielder for Borussia Monchengladbach, his club team.

Yet, it appears Johnson will be favored in a defensive role to start Copa America.

"I think every football player wants to get as many touches as possible. So do I," Johnson said, via ESPN FC. "I'm just trying to get on the ball whether I play defender or midfielder. It doesn't make any difference to me. I just want to enjoy the game, have fun, as does the whole team."

Johnson scored a career-high eight goals in all competitions in Germany this season as a midfielder, which helped Monchengladbach finish fourth in the Bundesliga league and reach the qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League. But he doesn't know where the spike in form came from.

"To be honest I have no idea," Johnson said when asked about his great season. "I just got used to the players. The first half of my time at Gladbach, I didn't play very much, I think 10-15 games. I always got subbed in. Then the second half, I almost played every game. I just got into a rhythm, got to know the players better. I think this helps every player a lot to improve himself."

Now, he will be tasked with helping some of USA's young players like DeAndre Yedlin and Christian Pulisic, two players who have also enjoyed success across the pond.