A Few Words With Crew Midfielder Robbie Rogers

Playoff-bearded Robbie Rogers leaves Columbus Wednesday;

Robbie Rogers is not happy with the team's mandatory playoff beard - it feels weird, he said Friday at Home Depot Center.

And the demand for tickets for an MLS Cup played in the South Bay where he grew up is intense: "I'm not answering phone numbers I don't have in my phone," he said, observing players get four tickets apiece and that he can't shake down teammates for any spares. "They all need their tickets so I'm buying 10 more and put a limit at that."

The Rolling Hills estates product has had a breakout season becoming one of the best players on the best team in the league, an MLS Goal of the Year finalist and getting a national team call-up for the first time:

Q: Assess the season
Answer: I think that overall it's been a consistent and totally great season. I think this team is different from last year and its been a totally different experience because we've had so much success.

Q: Were you surprised with your performance this season or not?
A: I felt like I was capable of this, but I'm still not happy with where I am. I can still learn from these guys and keep improving. Playing for the MLS Cup - it doesn't get any better, but I still think I have a lot to learn.

Q: How has Guillermo Barros Schelotto helped you this year?
A: He talks to me as much as he can at practice and before and after games. His English has gotten a lot better. Last year he couldn't really tell me stuff except through (an interpretor). This year's been a lot of help and a lot different to last year. I know how he plays now, too, so it's easier.

Q: As a South Bay lad you must know how much this game means to Crew Coach Sigi Schmid.
A: I was around (the Galaxy), watching them play at the Rose Bowl. I've been to so many games here to watch them play and I know he was fired and stuff so I would think he would be a little bitter - I would if I got fired the way he did - so I think for him to be back here in front of all our families and friends with a chance to win MLS Cup - it doesn't get any better."

Q: Do you see yourself returning to Europe?
A: Maybe after next season or something. I've talked to the coaches and agents and we've decided I'm going to come back for sure next season so we'll see what happens after next season.