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Soccer goals: With DaMarcus Beasley void of the skills to fulfill his duties during the failed left back experiment and Jonathan Bornstein and Heath Pearce unable to secure a starting position due to inconsistent play, questions and doubt persist to the quality and depth at left back as South Africa 2010 approaches quickly.

 

Rennes left back and US captain/center back, Carlos Bocanegra, was deployed as a left back against Spain and Brazil in the Confederations Cup knockout stages. But, his performance experienced mix reviews. His defensive skills produce a calming quality in the back line, but his inability to close down fast wingers and advance in the attack raises questions to his skill set as an international left back.

 

This soccer videos features Edgar Castillo highlights and soccer goals.

 

 

A report surfaced yesterday suggesting that Edgar Castillo "would play for the United States." Although shunned by the USSF due to his diminutive stature, the New Mexico native chose to develop his skills with Mexican powerhouse Santos Laguna after graduation. Garnering soccer respect came early in his high school career as he earned NCSAA/Adidas New Mexico State player of the Year. With a chip on his shoulder, the speedy left sided player ascended up the Mexican ladder of futbol, helping Santos secure the 2008 Mexican title.

 

With his stock rising, Coach Hugo Sanchez called up Castillo to play in the Olympic qualifiers where he scored a goal in three games. In addition, he played in four friendlies for the the Mexican Men's National Team. With the Mexican Federation spiraling out of control and experiencing four coaching changes in less than two years, it has become evident that Castillo's international future provides uncertainty.

 

A recent FIFA rule change, allowing players to switch nationalities, if the player was not cap tied to the Senior squad, has sparked rumors that the America defender will jump ship to the USS Bradley. It is possible that the USA could benefit in the next two months from this controversial rule change when both midfielder Jermain Jones (Germany) and Edgar Castillo (Mexico) switch allegiances, hoping to make an impact for the Red, White, and Blue.

 

Now, the question remains: Will Edgar Castillo solidify the left back position? Many have stated that his touch, skill on-the-ball, and flank speed surpass those of the current selection, but his defensive play requires additional fine-tuning. Whether you agree with the rule change or accept him on the USMNT, Soccer Addict News will review the dearth at left back. And, which current senior and youth players offer solutions to the perpetual concern at left back? 

Present

1. Heath Pearce (Out of Contract): considered the favor for the left back starting role has fallen into soccer obscurity losing both his role at club and country. Self proclaimed as the best left back in the US pool in 2007, the Bradenton Academy defender struggle to earn a starting position over Coach Bradley's favorite, Jonathan Bornstein. Although Pearce commands good speed, strong frame, ample defensive skills, and good touch, his attitude and confidence have suffered from his Bundesliga play which dissolved as he was demoted to the reserve side. Playing time will cure all ailments and picking the appropriate team that will field him on a regular basis will be even more important. This season - where ever he plays - will make or break the mercurial back's chances for 2010.

 

2. Edgar Castillo (Club America): gifted with a good touch, speed, and offensive repertoire, the sky should be the limit for the young speedster. However, many pundits claim that his game has recently stagnated, and his slight frame will not translate to the international game. Although these critics point to his deficiencies, the USA's dearth exhibits a painful truth that Coach Bradley must experience to find his best options. If Castillo can improve his defensive skill set combined with his offensive attributes, Coach Bradley could reveal Castillo as a possible starting left back heading into South Africa.

 

3. Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA):considered a Bradley favorite, has failed to capitalize on his opportunities. Although he garners attention for his speed and advance in the attack on the MLS level, the Chivas defender has provided limited opportunities in the attack struggling defensively with quicker and stronger wingers. The Conferderations Cup demonstrated that Bornstein is an upgrade over DaMarcus Beasley at left back but has worn out his welcome with the USMNT with sub par performances. Speculation exists that the Mexican American will move to Europe following the 2009 MLS season. Perhaps, his development will flourish in Europe where he will challenged on a daily basis.

 
4. Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes Ligue 1):deemed the emergency left back when the US faces an opponent such as Brazil or  Spain. His leadership and calming presence offers several appealing attributes at the left back position. Although he plays this position at Rennes, his lack of offensive advancement, lateral speed, and suspect distribution disqualifies his inclusion except in extreme emergencies (Bornstein and Pearce's fallen form). His ability to slot in an instance allows Coach Bradley the versatility in case of emergency, poor form,  or injury.

 

5. Right Back Conversion: With the left side void of talent, it is feasible to accept that several right backs could play on the left. Although they do not boast the natural qualities of a left-footed player, several right backs could offer better options if the other aforementioned "left-sided" players do not work out. Jonathan Spector, Marvell Wynne, and Frankie Hejduk provide the ability to excel at left back despite plying their trade as right backs. It will be interesting to see which direction Coach Bradley takes after evaluating the current players during CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers.

 

The Left Back Generation: Currently the US situation is doom and gloom when one discusses the left back options. However, it appears that the youth players will eventually supplant the current crop. Let's take a look at the potential players for 2014.

 

1. Anthony Wallace (FC Dallas): demonstrated his ability at the U-20 World Cup in Canada at the ripe age of 18. Besides earning the starting left back role for FC Dallas, the Tampa lefty, now 20,  will play in his second U-20 World Cup in Egypt. Boasting offensive skill, speed, and good crossing, the Hoop defender's future appears promising, despite rumors that his training habits reveal a level of complacency. His potential suggests that this experienced youth international will make the jump to Europe and also the Senior National level.

 

2. Rodney Wallace (DC United):has stated that he would like to play for the USMNT. However, his citizenship status is a work in progress. But, if he were secure his US passport, the speedy and athletic lefty would have to be considered the front runner for the 2014 starting position. His pedigree suggests that he can achieve a high international level as his Uncle starts for the Costa Rican National Team at right back. His break out season for DC United conveys a sense of urgency for US hopefuls who dream that the United Speedster chooses the stars and stripes.

 

3. Jeremy Hall (NY Red Bulls):  a work in progress, is another speedster who can play both on the right and left has ascended on the future National Team radar performing admirably in MLS despite his poor combine performance. His speed and athleticism boast a solid foundation for a candidate that could develop into a top left back option. In addition, Hall's youth national team experience indicates that the speedy Terrapin can make the transition to the international level boasting good touch, defensive attributes, and distribution.

 

What player would you like to start at left back? Will Edgar Castillo prove his worth for the USMNT? Can Bocanegra play better than the status quo? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: Edgar Castillo Could Switch Allegiances - Left Back Prospects and Depth Chart

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