Saturday, May 19, 2012

socceraddictnews.com

Latest domestic and international soccer news

Archive for the ‘United States Mens National Team’ Category

 

 

Soccer Goals: Dempsey avoids the Knife

 As many US supporters began to debate injury prognosis, potential replacements, and disbelief regarding Clint Dempsey's knee injury, Fulham FC released a statement addressing Clint Dempsey's injury status as "moderate" knee ligament damage. The injury will not require surgery, and he should return before the conclusion of the English Premiere League season.

 

Adversity has confronted the Deuce on several occassions since his move to Craven Cottage, where he has played under three different coaches, two relegation battles, and battling for a starter position. Despite the physical setback, Dempsey should return healthy before the World Cup on June 12th.

 

In a statement issued by Fulham FC, they comment on his chances:

During the Blackburn Rovers fixture on Sunday 17 January, Clint Dempsey sustained moderate damage to a ligament in his right knee. Following the results of a scan, early indications are positive in that no operation is required. At this stage it is thought that the injury will not prevent him from featuring for Fulham, prior to the end of the season.

Now that Dempsey will be unable for the Holland friendly, it will be interesting to see in which direction and player Coach Bradley elects. It is possible that a dark horse could impress between now and March 3rd.

 

US Midfielder Ricardo Clark closes in on Eintracht Frankfurt Deal

Pending a medical exam, midfielder Ricardo Clark will ink a six month deal with a club option for three years with Eintracht Frankfurt . The Frankfurt club currently sits in seventh place with 27 points and is six points ahead of Borrussia Monchengladbach, the team of current US midfielder Michael Bradley. Making an initial impact to earn playing time and securing a starting position will make the top of his to-do list, as he will battle for a US starting spot between Benny Feilhaber, Jermaine Jones, and Maurice Edu.

 

Stuart Holden to Portuguese Braga?

A recent UK report suggests that the former Houston Dynamo has left the Bolton Wanderers without a contract and could sign with premiere Portguese club Braga. After initially trialing at Burnley, Holden followed coach Coyle to Bolton where the club has yet to comment on whether Stuart Holden's status.

 

Are you happy about Dempsey's injury prognosis? Will Clark earn a starting role? If Holden does sign with either team, will he earn significant playing time? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Dempsey avoids knife, Clark to Eintracht Frankfurt, and Holden to Braga?

 

 

 


 

 

Soccer Goals: After spending four shivering cold days in Fort Lauderdale, compiling draft bios, evaluating team's draft, and writing a very thorough draft article, I lost my document in the internet fray. Poof, it's gone. Oh well, with that in mind, though, I will offer my post grades in a more concentrated form.

 

Soccer videos: 2010 MLS Draft Combine Reactions

 

 

Wheeling and dealing before the draft, the Philadelphia Union picked up two additional first round picks that allowed the team to nab not only the top forward but future depth that, should contribute and potentially yield European ROI (Return on Investment) if they develop. Although it was not highway robbery, it was pretty close to it, witnessing a draft picks of forward Danny Mwanga, Amobi Okugo, Jack McInerney, and Toni Stahl which they secured within the first 17 picks.

 

The Chicago Fire, New York Red Bulls, and San Jose gave their best college hooray but fell short to a Philly draft, that could be considered the best draft since its inception. With out further Adu, Soccer Addict News presents the 2010 MLS Superdraft Team Grades.

 

Philadelphia Union (A++)

After the Seattle Sounders' inaugural season which witnessed astute international acquistions, free agency movement, and frenzy supporters group that produced the best attendance in MLS, the Philadelphia Union would have to make their mark in other capacities not to be overshadowed, one being the draft where they bolstered an already solid player base from the supplemental draft.

 

Forward Danny Mwanga (Oregon St.) is considered to be a starter before the end of the first season, an attacker that boasts speed, skill, and soccer acumen in bunches, who also rejected offers from several top flight French Ligue 1 teams. The 2010 MLS combine MVP, Amobi Okugo, demonstrated that his skill, physical tools, and soccer cerebrum could bring forth a top level professional that will eventually receive European interest. Considered a more long-term prospect, striker Jack McInerney boasts loads of skill, while matching the playing levels of other combine players, who were more seasoned and physically developed.

 

Defensive midfielder, Toni Stahl, considered a top 10 prospect,  dropped to the Son's of Ben in the second round, a player that could slot into a starting position from day one. Benefiting from a strong class and draft moves based on need, play maker Kyle Nakazawa was reunited with assistant coach John Hackworth from his days at the U-17 coaching ranks. U-20 standout, Brian Perk, concluded their wonder draft in the fourth round, a keeper who will be able to develop and mature at his own pace.

 

Value, depth, and potential investment would best describe the Union draft. If either of their first round selections transfer to Europe their draft will be deemed a success.

 

Chicago Fire (A+)

A little bit of luck and fortune rolled their way, when playmaker Corben Bone fell to the Fire at the 13th spot. Nabbing the second best central defender Kwame Watson-Siriboe and active midfielder Drew Yates (a similar playing style resembling Sacha Kljestan) in the second round screams steal, along the lines of internet fraud. Keeper Sean Johnson arrives at the Windy City as a salary cap exemption and provides immense upside. Their draft contained value galore and would have earned the top draft grade if it were not for the Union.

 

New York Red Bulls (A)

With a new GM and foreign coach, it became apparent that the NYRB have begun their focus on the highly technical player. Man-child midfielder, Tony Tchani, impressed both in the College Cup and combine increasing his draft value. Chants of Tony were heard after his selection from the ESC. His skill set, athleticism, and soccer IQ embrace what every MLS team looks for in the draft and should allow him to slot into the central midfield as a starter.

 

Impressing both in the College Cup and draft, the NYRB landed the best left foot in the combine, Austin Da Luz, who can create from both a wing and central position. Many Red Bull supporters hope to erase the memories of turnover-prone left-footed creator,  Jorge Rojas.  Central defender Tim Ream confirms that NYRB are transitioning to a more technical style with his selection. Add dynamic speedster Irving Garcia, a potential darkhorse, to the mix, and Red Bull fan can anticipate an exciting and improved upcoming season.

 

San Jose Earthquakes (A-)

Adressing need and obtaining value is a difficult task but San Jose achieved both in their first two rounds. Defender Ike Opara fell into their lap at the third spot and should be a starter from day one, especially with Jason Hernandez' future in doubt after multiple injuries. High flying and skillful left back prospect, Justin Morrow, impressed during the combine, proving that his defense is solid while his ample attacking skills should translate to the next level. Although not as polished as Kevin Alston, the Notre Dame defender could become a draft steal, boasting similar potential to the bouncy haired Rev right back.

 

Leaving many scratching their head, San Jose selected the first non combine invitee, Steven Beitashour, in the second round but redeemed themselves in the third round with forward Andrew Hoaxie (think Nate Jacqua 2.0).

 

FC Dallas (B+)

Trading off their sixth pick to the Union for $150,000 allocation dollar could have lowered their grade but FC Dallas recovered well with value picks in the later rounds. Polished and versatile defender Zach Loyd can fill multiple positions while boasting deceptive speed, good skill, and a professional work ethic. Forward Andrew Wiedeman will be reunited with best friend central defender Kyle Davis. Although his stock fell after the combine, his second round selection produced great value, as he has been compared to Taylor Twellman. Both Jason Yeisley and Eric Alexander were late round steals considering their upside.

 

Let's not forget that the allocation money acquired will allow the Hoops to secure play maker Lee Nguyen further bolstering their attacking options. Loyd and new Ghana defender Ansah will further solidfy a porous defense that improved immensely in the second half of the season.

 

Real Salt Lake (B)

While the 2009 MLS Champions trade away Clint Mathis to LA Galaxy, the Lakers landed the best pure winger Collen Warner, who could become a starter and give Coach Kreis an added dimension in attack. Left back Justin Davis boasts a technical side that should mesh well with RSL's fluid passing game. Nabbing the third best center back, Chris Schuler in the third round solidifies a strong draft to an already deep squad. Despite the departure of forward Yura Movsisyan, RSL brings back young prospects Raphael Cox, Alex Nimo, and Jean Alexandre to further bolster their depth.

 

Kansas City Wizards (B-)

Changing strategy from acquiring aging South American stars and prospects should receive their fair share of recognition, as I have stated that the Wizards need more team speed especially at the forward position. Forward Teal Burnbury fits this bill, adding this extra dimension his rookie season, while boasting speed, size, skill but inconsistent and suspect finishing. Since Kei Kamara and Josh Wolff create a more athletic and dynamic forward pairing than previous duos, the Wizards seem to be moving in the right direction on this front.

Left back defender Olukorede Aiyegbusi packs a big punch despite his 5'5 frame, proving to be a top-two wing back prospect. His electric runs and tenacious play wreaked havoc on the left flank during the combine. Picking up towering center back Nick Cardenas and right back Ofori Sarkodie in the later rounds suggests value, but when will the Wizards part ways with their glut of youthful wing backs?

 

Colorado Rapids (C+)

Without a first round selection, the Colorado Rapids addressed several needs in forward Andre Akpan and defensive midfielder Ross LaBeaux. That being said, I would have not passed on Justin Morrow in the second round which subsequently lowered their grade a bit. With several key players set to return after injury, the Rapids should field a strong team next season.

 

LA Galaxy (C)

Landing Clint Mathis and Michael Stephens proved sufficient for Coach Bruce Arena as he recently acquired three Brazilian prospects, hoping to fine tune the Galacticos into 2010 MLS Champs.

 

Chivas USA (C)

Deep lying playmaker, Blair Gavin, addresses both depth and need now that Paolo Nagamura is on loan at Mexican club Tigres. Gavin's game resembles that of Claudio Reyna in the fact that he jump starts attacks from a deep position, while maintaining a fluid possession game with his movement and quick passing.

 

Columbus Crew (C-)

Many experts and observers highly criticized the Crew draft for the first round selection of forward Bright Dike. Although his finishing was poor during the college season and combine, his strength, speed and athleticism convinced the Crew to risk this pick on the 6'2 and 221 pound target forward. Will the reward exceed the risk? Play maker Dilly Duka will be allowed to develop gradually in the Yellow and Black system.

 

Late round selections, defender Kwaku Nyameke and clever central midfielder Othaniel Nanez, could make the team if their combine performances match the intensity at the pro level.

 

New England Revolution (D)

Forward Zach Schilawaski fills a need at forward, as his preference for Wake Forest prospects is well documented. Passing on Corben Bone in the following seasons could be painful to watch, if the Wake Forest play maker thrives in the Windy City. Who will become Coach Nicol's diamond in the rough? Left back Seth Sinovic could replace retired Jay Heaps, while Zach Boggs could project into a sleeper pick.

 

DC United (D+)

Curt Onalfo acquired the coveted goal keeper in Troy Perkins but gave up allocation money, Fred, and the seventh pick in the 2010 MLS draft. On a positive note, they signed El Salvador playmaker, Christian Castillo, and Australian forward Danny Allsop in free agency.

 

Seattle Sounders (D)

Reaching for David Estrada suggests that Coach Sigi Schmid really valued his ability, but the Sounders could have traded down on this pick. Villanova midfielder Mike Seamon provided a stellar combine performance and should make the squad. However, the Sounder's draft era has started dissappointingly, excluding the selection of Steve Zakuani. When will the Green and Blue construct a marvelous draft?

 

Houston Dynamo (D)

Coach Kinnear prefers to acquire MLS ready players via trades. Drafting Euan Holden could bear fruit if he decides to settle in with MLS. Forward David Walker could make the squad if he perfoms well in training camp. Forward Dominic Oduro should be included in this year's draft as he has improved under the Dynamo tutelage and was acquired via NYRB.

 

Toronto FC (D-)

Drafting for the future in defender Zachary Herald will pay dividends in the long term. TFC's  best acquisition could resonate from Coach Preki.

 

Who do you believe will stand out in the short term? Who will be the steal of the draft? Are you happy with your team's draft? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: 2010 MLS Superdraft Team Grades - The Union steal the show and draft

.

Soccer Goals: Which USMNT player boasts the fastes 40-Yard Dash?

Posted by Joel Shirey On December - 23 - 2009

 

 

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.

 

.

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.

.
 

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).

 

.

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.

 

.

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?

.

Soccer Goals: Bradley names 30 players for January Training Camp

Posted by Joel Shirey On December - 23 - 2009

 

 

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

.

 

 

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.

 
 
5. Jay DeMerit (Watford): After scratching his eye from a poor contact lense landing, the central defender has returned to action sooner than most would have anticipated. The Watford anchor earned 90 minutes in a 2-1 loss to Petersborough United.
 
.
Relegation Bound (Due to poor form or lack of playing time)
 
1. Freddy Adu (Belenenses): Sitting the bench has become very commonplace as he was unused against Uniao de Leiria in a 1-0 defeat. Although a winter transfer to any team willing to play him would be ideal, his current coach was dismissed offering an opportunity for the dynamic midfielder to make his case for a starting Xl spot.
 
2. Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes): Having been relegated to the bench in the last three matches does not bode well for the US regular. Playing time will be essential to reach the highest level before South Africa in June.
 
3. Eddie Johnson (Fulham FC): Falling further down the Roy Hodgson pecking order, an E-Bay flyer for his services was sent to all EPL and Coca-Cola Championship clubs. Will there be any suitors with EJ performing well for the reserves but rarely earning a seat on the the 18-man roster?
 
 
What do you think of Beasley's performance? Will we witness flashes of Run DMB circa 2000-2004? Will Dempsey eclipse 12 goals this season? Share your thoughts.
 
.

Soccer Goals: 2009 Nike Friendlies - Player Evaluations

Posted by Joel Shirey On December - 15 - 2009

 

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

.