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Soccer Goals: Endless debates have taken places in US soccer blogs and forums regarding, "Who is the fastest players in the USMNT pool and what if the US elite athletes played soccer?" The barometer has been set in Arsenal where it appears that forward Theo Walcott has surpassed Thiery Henry as the fastest Gunner ever. In a recent 40-meter dash competition, the England international clocked a 4.72' 40-meter time overshadowing Henry's previous record of 4.82'.

Recently declaring Walcott the fastest Arsenal player ever, Coach Arsene Wegner also suggested that other current teammates push him for the title, Carlos Vela and Armand Traore."The fastest three players I would say are Theo Walcott, Carlos Vela and Armand Traore," Wenger explained to the club's official website. "And yes, Theo is the fastest.

"He has the record on 40 metres. I think it's 4.72 seconds or something like that.

"Thierry was very fast as well, 4.82secs. I don't guarantee [the time] but it is in this area.

"Certainly Theo could have been a 100 metre runner. But Carlos Vela is very fast as well and Armand Traore is not far behind him."

Because 40-yard/meter dash times are not discussed in soccer and world football circles like the NFL, it was interesting to debate whether any of the US players would compare to this time. Comparing a former soccer player who turned to American Football for his livelihood,wide receiver Chad "Johnson" OchoCinco ran a 4.40 40-yard dash.

Let's not forget that a 40-meter run is 36.58 yards, meaning that Theo Walcott's speed and accomplishment is truly impressive. Could a current USMNT player measure up to this time?

So which players do I believe could produce solid 40-yard dash times from the USMNT? Based on watching their play for both club and country, included are five players that would compete for the Title of the Fast and the Furious.

USMNT Fastest Players

6. DaMarcus Beasley: Even though has slowed down a few steps after his knee injury, his speed and endurance has always been one of his greatest assets.  His menacing runs have created new life for his Ranger's career over the past two months, which will hopefully revitalize his club and country prospects.

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5. Jeff Cunningham: Despite losing a step over the years, one can argue that his first step, faster than Tiger Woods lovers going public, still reigns as the fastest in MLS. Couple the fact that he is 33 years old and burning twenty-somethings with his speed. It would be great to see him lineup against veteran Frankie Hejduk.

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4. Robbie Findley: Considered more of a speed forward than a player with skill, Robbie Findley has developed a full arsenal with skill, strength, and uber speed. Genetically, his family has bestowed him with some high profile wheels, ones that bling-bling more than Lil Wayne's grill: His cousins consist of Mike Bibby (Atlanta Hawks), Eddie House (Boston Celtics) and Brandon McDonald (Pitsburgh Steelers).

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3. Marvell Wynne: During the Olympics it became apparent that Wynne boasts jets comparable to Maicon or Alves. Unfortunately his skill has not matched his speed, but his skill is improving vastly from when he first entered the MLS. His strongest run would probably be the 100 meter run, but he still ranks highly on the 40-yard dash time, even speedier than the Black Friday shoppers as they open doors for business.

2. Landon Donovan: Leaving people in the dust has been Mandon (Landon) Donovan's claim to fame, look at how he and Charlie Davies linked up for their swift break-away goal against Brazil in the Confederations Cup. Mexico has felt the ill effects of his speed on several occasions. Although he probably does not boast the fastest 40-yard dash time, his speed while dribbling a ball is unmatched.

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1. Charlie Davies: burst onto the scene in the Confederations Cup, but his speed was unleashed in the final game against Nigeria in the Olympics where his speed impressed many. Not only does the Eagles speedster boasts speed, intensity, and endurance, his speed caused headaches for many of the Spanish defenders, who were forced to chase him in the Confed. Cup.

Who do you think would be the fastest player? What times do you think they would post in the 40-meter dash? Share your thoughts.

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Which USMNT player boasts the fastes 40-Yard Dash?

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Soccer Goals: Headlining the theme during the annual January Camp which starts January 4th-23rd ending with a friendly against Honduras, European newcomers Marcus Tracy and Alejandro Bedoya hope to make their mark during their first camp and call up. Although stating their claim to a strong domestic presence in the January Camp, MLS debutantes Omar Gonzalez, Jeff Larentowicz, Justin Braun, Chris Pontius, Brandon McDonald, and Kevin Alston will receive their first taste of training and maybe even some newbie hazing.

Soccer Videos: 2009 US Soccer Recap

Keeping the rookies in-check with their veteran presence, Benny Feilhaber, Sacha Kljestan, Chad Marshall, Conor Casey, Clarence Goodsen, and Jonathan Bornstein feature an experienced group that will dictate the level of training and guide the rookies in proper conduct under Coach Bradley's leadership.

With this camp being used as a last chance audition, the competition could be fiercer than most January training with World Cup spots up in air and in jeopardy. Will a dark horse arise from the group that will make a strong case for additional call ups or a roster spot? Were there any surprises in the roster?

Roster by Position

GOALKEEPERS (4): Kevin Hartman (Kansas City), Troy Perkins (Valerenga), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake), Zach Thornton (Chivas USA)
DEFENDERS (9): Kevin Alston (New England Revolution), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City Wizards), Omar Gonzalez (Los Angeles Galaxy), Clarence Goodson(IK Start), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Brandon McDonald (San Jose Earthquakes), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
MIDFIELDERS (12): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Örebro), Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus), Eddie Gaven (Columbus Crew), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Jeff Larentowicz (New England Revolution), Dax McCarty (FC Dallas), Chris Pontius (D.C. United), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)
FORWARDS (5): Justin Braun (Chivas USA), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Marcus Tracy (Aalborg)

Who would you like to see play well and make the USMNT? What is starting your Xl? Share your thoughts.

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Bradley names 30 players for January Training Camp

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Soccer Goals: With the holiday season slowing down the US Soccer season and MLS hibernating for the winter, several American's abroad have kept the excitement level high. Almost buried and forgotten about by most US supporters, DaMarcus Beasley has found a rich vein of form, scoring a goal, an assist, and setting up a second goal against Motherwell in a 6-1 victory. Stepping up in the biggest of games, Clint Dempsey propelled Fulham to a 3-0 victory over Manchester United, earning an assist. In addition, he set up the game winning goal which lead to the White's advancement, eliminating FC Basel in Europa League action.

Marcus Hahnemann continues to impress as he lead Wolverhampton to another victory with five saves. Over Germany, the steady and stable Steve Cherundolo assisted in Hannover's 3-2 defeat to VFL Bochum. Let's take a look at how the Yanks abroad fared.

1. DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers): Besides making it bling in jewelry stores in the UK, the speedy right winger continued his hot streak against Motherwell scoring a goal and adding an assist. Although the former Fire midfielder clamored for a winter transfer, his recent hot streak, offensive prowess, and Coach Smith's desire for Beasley to stay suggests that his playing time will continue if he does stay with the club.

2. Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC): After advancing to the knockout stages of the Europa League by defeating FC Basel 3-2, Dempsey' creativity sparked the offense with a late cameo appearance (which in reality should have scored a goal on several break-away attempts). Although many anticipated a let down against Super Club Manchester United, the Deuce earned high praises from Sky Sports earning a player grade of nine, while adding an assist and willing the club to a 3-0 victory over Sir Alex Ferguson.

3. Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96): Making his case for the right back position continues to pay dividends as he earned a superb assist and 90 minutes in a 3-2 defeat to VFL Bochum. With his experience and former captaincy in the Bundesliga, he hopes to create distance between to his US right back competition, Jonathan Spector.

4. Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton): Besides notching five saves against Burnley in their 2-0 victory, the veteran keeper has facilitated winning ways for the Wolves winning their last four out of six games. If he continues his strong play, he should forge his place on the USMNT for South Africa.

Soccer Goals: Hoping that Christmas would come early in the form of dynamic play making prospects for years to come, the Nike Friendlies demonstrated that the US U-17 squad must improve dramatically to reach the level of the 2007 class.

Soccer Videos: USA vs Brazil Nike Friendlies

But, luckily, although my Christmas stocking was not completely stuffed full of coal, several warm gifts reminded me that hope still exists.  Although I will not evaluate every player, I will give you an idea of who impressed, who I want to see more of and those that failed miserably.

Stock rising

Alfred Koroma (left winger): After hearing about his potential several years ago, several insiders alluded to his potential based more on his physical attributes than his skill, which is why he dominated at the youth level. That being said, I figured that Koroma would draw comparisons along the lines of Eddie Johnson and Marcus Tracey, great athletes who rely on their physical tools. However, this player proved that his skill overshadows his physical attributes. His dribbling, pace, and attacking sense showcased itself at the tourney, proving that he could be the top player from this generation. Although senseless touches and lumbering speed of play hindered his game ocassionally, there is no doubt that the other competition struggled with his skill set and versatility to play at both striker and winger. It is conceivable that he could have contributed on the u-17 side that played in Nigeria.

Marc Pelosi (Left Back): Although left back has been the Achilles heel of the USMNT, the U-17's have cultivated two strong candidates at the left back position (Tyler Polak of the 2007 class). The consistent and dependable wing back demonstrated a strong performance despite a poor center back pairing. His passing, defense, and menacing runs could provide hope for the future. In addition, his versatility shined brightly as he was able to shift to  a central midfield position, where he ushered various attacking sequences while linking up the attack.

Andrew Oliver (right wing): demonstrated glimpses of his pace and skill, resembling skills of winger, Kamani Hill or Sal Zizzo. Though he was able to create flank space, his runs would usually create too much of a gap between teammates, which would isolate himself from teammates, where he then would be surrounded by three defenders. Placed in a 4-4-2 would suit his skills where he could play off both forwards or wing back.

Kellen Gulley, Forward: Of all the forwards, Gulley impressed the most being able to hold up play,  while allowing time for the midfield to make daunting runs. Although not the fastest forward, his size created match-up problems for many of his opponents. His dribbling, passing, and finishing proved dangerous, as he did score against Brazil to secure a 1-1 with the Samba kings.

I want to see more

Nicholas Melo (central midfield): Entering each game in the second half, Melo offered a calming factor to the team which created a more fluid passing game. By not forcing passes and playing simple, his play alleviated pressure and created opportunities for his teammates. Truthfully, I was more impressed with his simple play than play maker Gijon.

Tarik Salcic (central midfield): comparisons could be drawn between Palodichuk and Salcic as strong and composed central midfielders. His first game performance impressed but was used sparingly in games two and three due to an injury.

Atsou Ayah (central midfield): After the first game against Brazil, I proposed to cancel his residency contract, as I watched him commit multiple turnovers, dangerous tackles, suspect defensive coverage, and little positional sense. Coach Cabrera rightly removed Ayah in the 38th minute, which in my opinion should have been in the first 20 minutes. Although he did improve in the second game, despite his penchant for hard and dangerous tackles, his third game offered a glimpse of his box-to-box potential. Finding his rhythm was crucial as he performed well despite the other team struggling. He must improve his fitness and continue to work on his skill and short passing game.

Ive Burnet (left back): provided great coverage for Pelosi, while demonstrating great pace and defensive skills.

Unimpressive players

Nathan Smith/Andrew Souders (center back): The starting center back tandem provided some draw dropping defensive moments (wow did they really just let up two easy goals like that). Positional sense and good communication lacked for most the tourney. In their defense, it did not help that the central midfield were caught of position on multiple occasions. If I were in Cabrera's shoes, I would start scouring the lands for more center backs. They just don't cut it.

Fernando Pina (keeper): produced two eye-gouging performances with one decent one stacked in the middle. Although he makes a spectacular save from time to time, his positional sense and instincts cause great concern, as he was caught with his pants down on several occassions leaving the goal completely exposed. His play resembled that of an improv comedy sketch which was complimented well with the clownish performance of the center back duo.  I have to admit his play was comical  -- I had a few laughs myself.

Irvin Gijon, playmaker: From first glance, his skills and vision proved very convincing, but after the first 20 minutes, his play began to fade, as he forced passes when other options were more viable. Justifying his place in the starting Xl and adjusting the formation to fit his skills seems to waver from the logic that made Spock, Captain Kirk's right-hand man. His skill can impress during moments of the game, but I do not rate him higher than Marlon Duran a central midfielder from the 2007 class (who I do not rate as highly as others might).

It is important to remind everyone that these were a set of friendlies, but the USA must continue to improve and develop their player pool. If the players have reached their ceiling or better options are available, I hope that US Soccer will identify these players and bring them to residency. Good luck to all the new Residency players and those striving to make a difference in the USMNT scene.

Which player stood out in your opinion? Will Koroma be the break out player of the group? Share your thoughts.

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: 2009 Nike Friendlies - Player Evaluations

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Soccer Goals: Like a kid in a candy store or a young boy anxious for Christmas to arrive to discover a new bike or a toy rifle, the Nike Friendlies offered a glimpse of the future of the USMNT pipeline. When the US debuted against Portugal, I was that kid.

But, like many kids during the Christmas celebration, unwrapping gifts can end in disappointment, you know that gift that you received as a child when your Aunt Bertha gave you the attrocious shirt or the cologne that smells worse than a stadium bathroom. 

Soccer videos: USA vs Portugal highlights

 

After watching the first 20 minutes of the new generation, I grew more frustrated at that fact that this is the best that the USA offers. Although many have annoited Coach Wilmer Cabrera, the up-and-coming, creative and progressive coach, comparisons should not be concluded that the new U-17 leader has lead the charge in a possession based style.

For example, the younger generations have proven that they are more apt to playing a fluid passing style, able to maintain possession under pressure. Although the recent U-20's demonstrated poor form, partly due to poor tactics and lack of talent, the 2007 U-20's provided a glimpse of what the USMNT will be capable of in years to come.

Blessed with arguably the best U-17 crop that featured Charles Renken, Sebastian Llegett, Joseph Gyau, and Luis Gil, Cabrera's transition to a passsing and attacking style would be a more seamless process than in previous cycles. Shocking many during the 2007 friendlies by defeating Brazil 2-0, the 2007 cycle provide hope for the 2009 U-17 World Cup chances.

After breezing through the CONCACAF qualification with splendid goals and strong play, the U-17 appeared to be a team on the rise. However, three key offensive players (Gyau, Renken, and Lleguet) would not make the trip due to injuries, club commitments, or personal reasons.

Their absence became evident in the first game where Spain down a man controlled the pace of the game by defending and counterattacking with style and grace. Despite outpossessing each team from their group, the US struggled to finish goals when it counted. Advancing to the knockout stages, the Italians demonstrated an inferiority in their possession game by closing down space, causing errant finishing, advancing with a 2-1 victory.

While I still rode the fence on whether Cabrera has created a new soccer philosopy in the US Soccer Federation, converting US Soccer Federation powers into believers in the same manner Kaballah captivated Madonna, it is apparent that amongst most fans the two groups seem to be split down the middle.

But after watching all three friendlies, it seems that the 4-5-1 formation, which has been built around one player, Irvin Gijon, produced little in possession and the attack. Although he did exhibit talent and creative mind, his fading presence would stifle the US attack, leaving the squad in a vulnerable state forced to move the ball upfield under extreme duress and pressure. Little effort was made to help other teammates, while their opponents were applying pressure causing multiple turnovers and errant passess. If this generation symbolizes our best players in the system, I have reasons for concern.

If I were to compare the 2007 squad to the 2009 edition, the player-vs-player analysis would favor the 2007 squad, like the odds favoring Brazil to win the World Cup over of New Zealand . Perhaps my anticipation of upcoming generations must be tempered, but it is hard for me to believe that these are the best 40 players in the U-17 demographic.

Entitlement and coddling of players seems to have taken some of the heart and drive out of the players, as they have been proclaimed the best thing since slice bread. Although the Residency has produced great players and allowed for greater devolplement, perhaps the program has reached a point of diminishing returns. Coaches, players, and federation executives must be held accountable for the on-field product. Casting a bigger net and broadening the scope will give others who could excell at the top level.

Adding regional competive training grounds with an opportunity for relegation and promotion will keep those Residency players on their toes, while giving hope to players to make a case for a potential Residency scholarship.

Charlie Davies, Stuart Holden, Clint Dempsey, Benny Feilhaber, and Jose Francisco Torres are players that were overlooked but made their case for the USMNT. It is time that we reevaluate players coming into our system. If they rest on their laurels once they earn their residency spot because competition does not drive this model, the USMNT will continue to plateau at the international level.

It is time for accountability.

Part Two will examine the new crop of players and their performances in the Nike Friendlies.

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Nike U-17 Friendlies debut new residency team

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Soccer Goals: Sitting on my couch awaiting the US' World Cup destiny, while recovering from a severe sinus infection that threatened to quell my excitement, the US received their dream draw, a group that includes their colonial cousins (England), a solid Slovenia, and an unknown Algeria.

As the the group C draw was announced placing the USA against the Three Lions, the dream match, that paired Beckham vs Donovan, football vs soccer, and side vs team-semantics, will experience six months of media coverage and spotlight. Besides the constant English buzz in forms of paparazi, tabloids, and WAGS exclusives, this honorable duel will feed soccer fans and junkies endless reading material that will leave bags under their red eyes.

Here are my top Five for the the England vs USA match

1. Landon Donovan vs David Beckham: Marketing gurus and British media were popping the bubbly after the announcement of this match. Raising awareness in the UK and attempting to move soccer more mainstream stateside, Brand Beckham has interested the most novice of US soccer fans, with most fans originating from the female demographic, ages ranging from 10-50 years old.

The LA Galaxy stars experienced a media frenzy after the release of the David Beckham Experiment where Landon Donovan called out DB for his lack of leadership. After patching up their volatile relationship which would even over shadow Chris Brown and Rihanna, the dynamic duo mended their differences qualifying for the MLS Cup, which they lost in a penalty shoot out against Real Salt Lake.

The English midfielder will possess a better knowledge of the US player and their tendencies, possibly shedding light on the proper way to defeat the Red, White, and Blue. While David Beckham accepts the media blitz, it is apparent that his US counterpart will bathe in the English media spotlight, as it will shine brighter and longer than the hot carribean sun. Landon a.k.a. Mandon -- a junkie for a camera and a mic -- will interview countless times from now until the end of the World Cup. Could Landon Donovan garner the attention in UK that DB receives stateside (oozing with sarcasm).?

Interesting locker room quotes should arise within the next six months. Who will put his foot in his mouth first?

2. E.A.S.Y.: No the acronym does not stand for English (women) Always. Say. Yes. but rather now stands for:

England

Algeria

Slovenia

Yanks

Yes, it is true that the Three Lions boast the deepest and most talented team, but even this acronym takes the cake, bringing English football snobbery to an all time high. They didn't just add fuel to the fire, they blow torched the fire while throwing explosives and dousing it with unlimited gallons of petrol. Chants of easy, easy, easy permeated throughout English pubs on December 4th. It is possible that their overconfidence will be seen on 2010 episodes of Ripley's Believe It or Not.  Swallowing knives or women stretching their necks with wire tubes seems underated, compared to witnessing chants of overconfidence in pubs all around England singing..Easy, Easy, Easy.

Let's hope that the English can put their money where their mouth is because expectations have just increased ten fold. Could one of the three underdogs silence English fans for at least one day?

3. Sky Sports News: Considered one of the most progressive and reliable international sports media outlets, Sky Sports outclassed themselves during the draw by providing extensive research and knowledge of the USMNT. For example, when announcing the veteran as 2010 South African bound winger, DaMarcus Beasley, Sky Sports interviewed right after the group C announcement, assuming that he must surely have his ticket punched with 89 caps and 17 goal. However, the commentator never made mention that Beasley has yet to receive a callup since the Confederations Cup which dates back to June 2009. What is even more comical is that representing Rangers with little playing time should ultimately entitle him to a roster spot.

According to Sky Sports, the current US roster is listed as such, Jonathan Spector, Frankie Hejduk, Clarence Goodson, Carlos Bocanegra, Heath Pearce, Dax McCarty, and Marcus Hanneman etc.. You get the point. This US squad appeared in last friendly against Denmark, where the Danes dismantled the USA 3-1. This make-shift roster does not reflect the 23 that will represent in South Africa, as many players were missing due to injuries or club commitments.

Since it is difficult to know everything about each team in the World Cup which is understandable, the USMNT and its faithful followers appear to know more about English soccer than the inventors of the game, who must begin to perform ardous research on their MLS contigents and Americans Abroads.

4. Average Joe vs Millionaires: It has become widely known that MLS produces talent with limited resources. For example, John Terry earns more annually than a MLS team's salary cap. While the $34k Stuart Holden battles soon-to-be billionaire David Beckham on the flanks, will the USA demonstrate a good bang for their buck? Will English bling-bling, Maybach, and steak/lobster dinners prevail over Honda Hybrids, Chili's chicken tenders, and graphic T's.

Certainly, a chip on their shoulder will exist, an opportunity to play against England's finest. Will over worked, underpaid, and lunch-pail players aspire to impress European scouts, so that they can make it rain like Lil Wayne, after signing a new "phat" post World Cup contract?

Picture it now -- Robbie Findley, Chad Marshall, Stuart Holden, and Jose Francisco Torres situated in a swank London night club celebrating and toasting to their new lucrative contracts -- it could happen.

5. English scouting: Another positive aspect of this draw will be the attention given by English scouts, who will scour the US soccer digital wasteland to identify the US' top 23. During their research and attention to detail, these scouts could identify several diamonds in the ruff that could receive consideration for an EPL tryout. The potential exposure should give the MLS and American's Abroad the opportunity to find solid clubs and better paying gigs.

What do you think of the US' chances? Who will emerge from the USMNT as a star in 2010? Share your thoughts.

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Top Five England vs USA Match