Tajon Buchanan comments on being frequently fouled by opponents

Tajon Buchanan was fouled a career-high five times during the New England Revolution’s scoreless draw against Nashville SC. It’s a stat that says a lot about his playing style.

The second-year professional likes to use his speed and crafty footwork to go one-on-one. This causes headaches for opponents, who regularly resort to fouling.

Buchanan had three fouls suffered against both D.C. United and the Montreal Impact, making him one of the most fouled players on the field in each game.

Buchanan admitted that it can be frustrating to be fouled so often, but he also knows it has it’s benefits.

“It takes a toll on your body,” Buchanan told media. “But at the end of the day, guys getting yellows and stuff is just going to make it easier to keep going at them because if they keep fouling me they could be sent off and it could help us to get goals.”

Head coach Bruce Arena complimented Buchanan’s play, noting he’s been “aggressive going to goal.” Buchanan has started four straight games now and he’s improved with each outing. Arena stated, “It’s really encouraging to see him develop.”

Of course, he needs to get on the score sheet more often. On Saturday, Buchanan set new personal records in terms of shots (seven) and shots on goal (three). He ultimately failed to beat goalkeeper Joe Willis.

Matt Turner offered heavy praise to Buchanan, saying he’s gained a lot of confidence while keeping his great work ethic. With a slight smirk, Turner called out Buchanan, stating that it’s time for him to collect more goals and assists.

“For him, now it’s time to start producing and I’m sure he’ll tell you that as well,” Turner said. “At the end of the day we didn’t score any goals [against Nashville ], so I’ll call him out and hopefully we can keep working harder in training and get better and we can see him put the ball in the back of the net.”