Rather than struggle with the weight of expectation, his performances have improved as the spotlight on him has brightened.
It appears he is already outgrowing the North American league, but it might be wise to allow him to play at this level, in his hometown, with his family around him (his brother Quinn, 22, also plays for the Union) for a little while longer, regardless of the other options open to him pre-City.
“I find him to be handling the pressure of everything pretty well,” added Tannenwald.
“Talk with him for long enough, and you’ll know he’s still a teenager, still finding his way with some things as any teen would.
“Yes, he can come across as cocky, but he’s well grounded, not just by Richter, but by having his oldest brother there in the locker room with him.
“Away from the stadium, Sullivan has a strong family at home. Both of his parents, Brendan and Heike, played soccer, and grandfather Larry went from a player in the 1960s to one of the most famous coaches in the Philadelphia region.
“They all keep Cavan grounded too, even as they know he is the best of all of them.”
