GettyImages-540882356
Clint Dempsey has been a top contributor for the U.S. team since 2004. Getty

With the Gold Cup about five weeks away, U.S. head coach Bruce Arena has included mostly established American players for Saturday's friendly match with Venezuela at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah. Facing an unheralded Venezuela squad, the match represents one of two tune-up matches for the U.S. before facing Panama on July 8.

The roster includes starlet Christian Pulisic as well as veterans Michael Bradley, DaMarcus Beasley, Graham Zusi, Jozy Altidore and goalkeepers Brad Guzan and Tim Howard. But also on the roster are some inexperienced players that could earn a chance to impress, like defender Matt Hedges, midfielders Kellyn Acosta and Paul Arriola, as well as goalkeeper Ethan Horvath.

Also on the roster is Clint Dempsey, who is chasing a major milestone. The longtime attacking midfielder is just one goal behind Landon Donovan for the U.S. team's scoring record of 57 goals. The friendly might be the ideal opportunity to draw even with Donovan, since the match carries little significance other than for Arena to develop a better understanding of the right mix of players.

An argument can be made that Dempsey has been the greatest player in U.S. history. His scoring prowess aside, Dempsey, 34, has been a stalwart in the U.S. attack at midfield and forward. Over 132 caps, the Texas native was part of three World Cups and has been a consistent force on all parts of the field.

And Dempsey may not be done. He continues to shine with the Seattle Sounders and has remained sharp in U.S. duties.

"[Dempsey] has a bunch of good years still ahead of him," said Arena on Friday. "With the national team, I think as we continue to surround him with good players, he's still is a player that we believe can give us quality minutes and be an important player."

Venezuela is looking for momentum after a long spell of poor results. Rafael Dudamel's squad has just one win in their last 10 matches.

Start Time: 10 p.m. ET

TV Channel: Fox Sports 1, Univision, Univision Deportes Network

Live Stream: Fox Soccer Go

Rio tinto