Richards, who played a key role for the USMNT in the World Cup on home soil, has been recalibrating since the team's 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the round of 16. The loss was a chastening and frustrating experience for Richards, who struggled to contain Nicolas Raskin in the US area and made a giveaway inside his own area in second-half stoppage time that led to Romelu Lukaku finishing off the co-hosts.
However, Richards has now moved on from the disappointment, telling ESPN that his lifelong dream of playing in a World Cup is done, and it's now onto the next thing. He's focused on becoming a leader for both Crystal Palace and the USMNT, and is looking to continue his growth as a player. Richards has been working on his recovery and is always looking to find that extra 1% physically. He's also been taking on a mentorship role, with Palace adding teenage American winger Zavier Gozo to their ranks.
Richards' next step is to lead Crystal Palace to a successful season in the Premier League, with the team looking to finish higher up in the table than they did last year. He's also hoping to add to his collection of rubber chickens, which have become a fun and lighthearted part of his life.