United States under-17 standout Haji Wright (pictured) signed with the New York Cosmos on March 30, 2015. (Photo: Mexsport)

UNIONDALE, New York -- Talk about being at the right place at the right time. 

Forward Haji Wright's favorite player just happens to be Spanish international legend Raul, who plays for the New York Cosmos. 

As it turns out, Wright will get an opportunity to train and perhaps play with his idol after signing with the North American Soccer League team on Monday. 

"He is one of the best forwards who has ever played," Wright said.  "Hopefully I can learn from him." 

Wright, a member of the U.S. side that qualified last month for the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, noted that Raul’s presence was one of the factors why he decided to sign with the Cosmos.  He also was impressed with the team's technical staff, led by head coach Giovanni Savarese, a former Major League Soccer standout and Venezuelan international striker.  

"They have a great coaching staff. big players like Raul and Marcos Senna," Wright commented.  "It's great for learning for a young player like me.  The NASL is growing every day.  I was just really attracted to the Cosmos, everything about them.  I really want to play with the Cosmos." 

Raul, who turns 38 on June 27, is old enough to be Wright's father. 

"That's the beauty of soccer.  That's how the youngsters learn," Savarese said.  "That's why I thought it was so important for Haji to be in this environment.  For him to be able to be pushed, to be challenged, to be taught.  He has an extraordinary player…person…next to him, which is Raul that definitely can give him plenty of advice." 

In only a few practice sessions this week, Wright has impressed his teammates as well. 

"He's 17-years-old.  He is tall and his physicality is impressive, very impressive," Cosmos striker Mads Stokkelien remarked.  "He can be a top striker." 

Wright said that he was willing to wait before he gets some playing time.  The Cosmos open their third NASL season at the Fort Lauderdale Strikers on Saturday night. 

"I have to be patient and keep working hard," he finished.