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In the latest soccer news, the American's abroad showed improvement in earning playing time and proving that injuries were a thing of the past this weekend abroad. Preston Zimmerman (Kapfenberg SV) of the Austrian Bundesliga highlights the Americans Abroad's list with a goal and 89 minutes of playing time. Jonathan Spector (West Ham United) of the Barclay's Premiere League tallied an assist but most importantly returned and played 85 minutes returning to full fitness after his recent injury. For all the Giuseppe Rossi haters, Rossi did not disappoint as he started, played, and scored another goal for Villareal.

 

This American Abroad segment will start to feature a top five players list and relegation bound segment for those players lacking playing time or poor performances. If possible, soccer videos will be posted to show all the great action available over the weekend and links from other soccer columnists regarding their performances. Without further Adu, I present you the new and improved American's Abroad February 21-23rd.

 

1. Jonathan Spector of West Ham United played 85 minutes and contributed to the only Hammers goal as they lost to Blackburn Rovers 2-1. With the US left  back position needing reinforcements as neither Pearce and Bornstein have staked their claim on the starting spot, Spector must continue to earn playing time with West Ham and prove his longevity avoiding any additional injuries.

 

This Soccer video features Spector's assist against Bolton Wanderers.

 

 

2. Preston Zimmerman forward for Kapfenberg SV scored a goal, earned a yellow card, and played 89 minutes in the Austrian Bundesliga resulting in a 2-1 win over FC Karten. At the age of twenty years old, Zimmerman would like to start breaking into the National Team scene in the next couple of years. Zimmerman has tallied two goals in twelve starts and thirteen total appearances for the season. It is necessary that he continues to score in order to receive recognition from Coach Bradley for future consideration.

 

This soccer video features Preston Zimmerman scoring his goal.

 

3. Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC) continued his positive contributions with Fulham FC playing ninety minutes, winning 2-0 against West Brom, and providing excellent service for scoring opportunities which were squandered mainly by Bobby Zamora. In the first half, Dempsey rocketed a 35 yard long strike with his left foot which bounced of the crossbar and would have been one of the top goals of the premiere league this weekend. It appears that he is now earned the respect of Coach Roy Hodgson and teammates as he has tallied 4 goals, 1 assist, and 12 shots-on-goal in 15 starts.

 

4. Brad Friedel, Aston Villa goalkeeper, had a tremendous game playing 90 minutes and adding fives saves. Unfortunately, Aston Villa lost to Chelsea 1-0 and now will be fighting for the coveted 4th place spot with Arsenal.

 

5. Giuseppe Rossi earned 57 minutes and scored a goal as Villareal defeated Sporting Gijon 2-1. Although several US supporters will frown at his inclusion, Rossi boasts an impressive season scoring 12 goals and 3 assists in 17 appearances. In addition, his UEFA Championship play has lead to 2 goals on 4 starts and his Italian National team appearances have proved worthy with 4 goals in 6 appearances. His recent play against Brazil in a friendly was excellent  as he appeared to be the only offensive threat against the Brazilians.

 

Relegation Bound- Players who are sitting and not impressing.

1. Freddy Adu (AS Monaco) has become a soccer obscurity the last several months. His play against Juventus was excellent but has failed to earn much playing time after this game. Colombian forward, Pino, is not making the task easier as Pino has earned and competed for most of Adu's potential playing time. His recent exclusion for the USMNT qualifier against  Mexico speaks volumes of how he is regarded by both his coaches. Simply put, Freddy needs playing time where ever it might be.

 

2. Eddie Johnson (Cardiff City) is still riding pine and has been unable to score a goal in England. With a loan move to Cardiff City from Fulham FC, Johnson was supposed to have the opportunity to earn playing time, but that has not happened. Swedish Club, Malmo, has shown interest in the 24 year old striker, but this transfer news has resonated as a whisper appearing, perhaps, that talks have cooled down.

 

3. Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock) dressed but did not play in a 3-1 loss to Mainz. It is imperative that he starts earning time now that the USA has upcoming qualifiers. Pearce has the potential to be the starter but has had some recent luke-warm performances for the red, white, and blue. If Spector can stay healthy, the US left back battle will begin to heat up even more. Several Scandinavian teams have expressed interest in his services after the Bundesliga season is over.

 

Links from other websites that discuss American's Abroad.

Soccer By Ives report on American's Abroad Rewind.

Soccer Insider Steven Goff lists American's Abroad by position.

Yanks Abroad Soccer highlights provides soccer videos of players performances.

 

What did your favorite player do this weekend? Who was your best performer this weekend? Are you happy to see Spector and Simek return to form? Will Spector make a run at the left back position this year? What are your thoughts? Let us know.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Latest Soccer News: American's Abroad February 21-23rd - Zimmerman scores and Spector earns an assist.