Photo: Alex Schierholtz

Orlando City announced Wednesday afternoon that team-leading scorer Jamie Watson will be sidelined for 3-4 weeks with a calf strain, giving rookie Midfielder Jonathan Mendoza an opportunity to step up in place of Watson for the crucial ending of the 2013 USL PRO regular season.

“With Jamie (Watson) being injured, I have to step up,” said Mendoza in his interview with OrlandoCitySoccer.com. “It’s a big moment for me. I have to play Jamie’s position and do the best I can."

The Stetson graduate has been a standout in Orlando’s rookie class, playing the most minutes of any first-year player on the team (575). He’s started three matches for the Lions, notching one assist in an early May game against Antigua Barracuda FC.

Mendoza touched upon the upcoming stretch of matches at the beginning of August, saying the key will be to remain mentally sharp throughout.

“It’s going to be tough for everyone, the five games in 16 days. (Head) Coach (Adrian Heath) has told us that everyone is going to have to step up and play. We’re trying to keep our mentality up with the games in the limited amount of days.”

The midfielder said his qualities as a high-energy player will be tested with the possibility of starting in a string of games, commenting on what he brings to the pitch for Orlando.

“High energy,” Mendoza added. “I always work hard with a positive attitude. It’s always a pleasure to play for Adrian and I’m looking forward to the opportunity.”

After captaining the Orlando City U23s to a PDL Southern Conference Championship in 2012, Mendoza has adjusted to the professional atmosphere- saying the biggest difference is the amount of time spent on training.

“You have to be faster, stronger, and quicker on your feet,” he said. “The seasons are obviously longer, from training three months to around nine months. Everyday you learn something new, which is exciting.”

When asked what he will be telling himself about possibly starting in August as the Lions attempt to capture their third-straight USL PRO Regular Season Championship, the midfielder responded with three simple words.

“Just be ready.”