Soccer goals: Forward Charlie Davies returned to Sochaux on Wednesday, meeting with his team mates for the first time after suffering a severe injury in October in Washington DC two days before the final hexagonal qualifier against Costa Rica.
Soccer Videos: The Charlie Davies returns to Sochaux
As many pundits suggested that a potential six month recovery would be impossible, the US forward has progressed miracously and hopes to return to Sochaux in April. Although he would not declare a comeback date, he believes that his return will sooner than most would have expected.
If Davies returns to good form (though it will be an uphill battle), his stunning recovery will complicate Coach Bradley's roster selection of the USMNT for the World Cup.
Will Davies return before the French season concludes? Will he return to a strong form? Share your thoughts.
Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Charlie Davies returns to Sochaux
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.
Soccer Goals: With the USMNT securing their Hexagonal crown, CONCACAF's royalty experienced two severe setbacks: Charlie Davies suffered multiple injuries from a car wreck two nights before the Costa Rica clash, and Oguchi Onyewu tore his patella tendon, which will sideline him for at least three or four months. Couple this news with the Jay DeMerit's eye injury, and Chad Marshall's returns from an MCL injury, and this news does not bode well for the US centerback depth.
Soccer Goals: Davie is out of ICU - Who will replace him?
While Onyewu's injury will severely set back the US' center back depth, Charlie Davies absence will hurt even more, which will diminish his speed factor, hustle play, and the dynamic element that had been missing, since Eddie Johnson lost his form and confidence, after transferring to Fulham FC where he has struggled to find regular playing time. Impressing strongly in Fulham's preseason, scoring goals and earning assists, Eddie Johnson could factor in to additional callups, but club playing time will be necessary if he wants a Coach Bradley phone call.
Playing in a sub role scoring 10 goals and three assists, the speedy Robbie Findley provides another option as a Davies replacement. His speed, strength and body type, finishing, and underrated aerial play could earn a callup for the upcoming Denamark friendly. When he played in the 2008 Olympic qualifiers, the swift forward impressed with pace and played comparably to Charlie Davies. Although lacking the international experience, his upside and potenatial suggests that he should receive several chances to prove his worth.
Leading the MLS in goals and terrorizing back lines, FC Dallas forward, Jeff Cunningham, deserves at least a call up based on current form, a streak that has yielded 17 goals and eight assists since July. His pace, dangerous runs, and 1v1 dribble penetration wreaks havocs on opposing defenses. Although labeled as a locker-room cancer, egocentric teammate, and boasting little international experience, the red-hot striker could bring a similar element that the USMNT lacks now that the iconic Davies is sidelined.
With these pressing issues threatening the US depth, some selections will be based on the fact that Onyewu and DeMerit might return to full health and good form. Remember, this segment identifies who SAN believes that Coach Bradley will take to South Africa and potential players for future friendlies.
DaMarcus Beasley, Frankie Hedjuk, and Brian Ching did not make the cut this month. Things could change, but their effort and chance will prove to be a an uphill battle.
Name
Position
Club
Status
1. Landon Donovan (1)
Midfield
LA Galaxy
Without LD and his playmaking ability, where would the USA have finished without his calming presence? It appears that LD has found his ideal position at left wing.Let's hope that Bradley leaves him there and finds an appropriate replacement for Davies. A winter European move appears certain in the cards.
2. Tim Howard (2)
Keeper
Evervton FC
Continues to make timely saves and remains the #1 at Everton. The US defense needs to step up their play, as their lack of concetration left Timmy exposed for five minutes against Los Ticos.
3. Clint Dempsey (5)
Midfielder
Fulham FC
With a void to fill at forward, could the Deuce be the answer? Once he moves up top, he transforms into a different figure. His goal against El Salvador and splendid play at forward in T&T late in the 2nd half suggests a permanent move might be the answer.
4. Carlos Bocanegra (&)
Defender
Rennes
With Onyewu and DeMerit out with injury, Bocanegra assumes more responsibility in the central defense. His leadership will be key in their absence.
5. Jozy Altidore (6)
Forward
Hull City FC
If there were ever a time to show greater hustle, earn club playing time, improve fitness, and score goals, the time is now. Let's hope that this incident was a learning experience, so he applies himself for the next seven months.
6. Jonathan Spector (8)
Defender
West Ham United
Although club playing time diminshed recently, his presence offers versatility and can provide cover for Cherundolo. His crossing and distribution have been consistent and remarkable.
7. Steve Cherundolo (17)
Defender
Hannover 96
His steady international club play bodes well for the right back position. If the matchup requires a quicker back, Cherundolo fits the bill while being able to cross a mean ball, advance in the attack, and distribute purposefully.
8. Michael Bradley (10)
Midfielder
Borrussia Mochengladbach
Despite regaining his club and international form, he is scoring goals for both sides. Where he needs to improve greatly is in his positional sense. Playing as a holding midfielder is not his strong suit. Clark, Edu, Jones will compliment him better than Feilhaber did against Costa Rica. In limited minutes, Francisco Torres combined well with Lil Bradley.
9. Jermaine Jones (9)
Midfielder
Schalke 04
After undergoing surgery to remove a metal plate that was causing discomfort to his leg, the tenacious midfielder should return to form by the end of the year. Team cohesion still remains a big question mark, if he is to make the squad, but his talent and European experience will offer an upgrade at holding midfielder.
10. Stuar Holden (14)
midfielder
Houston Dynamo
During the Honduran and Costa Rican qualifiers, his composure, crossing, and tireless work rate gave the US another option, when the Deuce seperated his shoulder. If Demspey moves up top, Holden will slot in well at right wing.
11. Ricardo Clark (12)
Midfielder
Houston Dynamo
While Edu and Jones are recovering from injury and gaining form, the Dynamo midfielder holds his place as a viable candidate to make the final roster. Against Honduras, he had his hands full with Wilson Palacios and Hendry Thomas, while possessing well in the second half in that game. Is he off to Livorno?
12. Benny Feilhaber (12)
Midfielder
AGF Aarhus
His previous qualifers offered a mixed bag of results. However, in his defense, his partnership needs to have more defined roles as the duo lacked cohesion and understanding against Los Ticos. Playing him in a more advanced position with a holding player in support will suit him fine. His exploits were evident in the Confederation Cup and qualifying, which is directly attributed to his Aarhus club play.
13. Jose Francisco Torres (15)
Midfielder
Pachuca CF
His Costa Rica performance offered a glimpse of his attacking prowess and possession, while displaying a strong penchant for defense. If the new defense changes, ushers in new players who can distribute well, JFT could be the essential link for both lines. His crossing and set-piece delivery compares with Adu and LD.
14. Chad Marshall (20)
Defender
Columbus Crew
With injuries in central defense, the 2008 MLS defender of the year is the logical choice to start next to Bocanegra. His distribution and poise exceeds Onyewu but lacks the international and European experience. Gooch's injury could be a silver lining to build more center back depth.
15. Maurice Edu (14)
Midfielder
Rangers
Besides earning international recognition for his "game" off the field, Edu began to earn plaudits for his Rangers' title-run play, before his knee injury sidelined him for six months. Playing center back at the Olympics could provide coverage and offer versatility which will likely ensure him a spot in South Africa, provided that he regains form and remains healthy.
16. Edgar Castillo (18)
Defender
Tigres UNAL
Despite Bornstein's heroic play to close out the Hex, the speedy wing back offers greater versatilty to the lineup and can create even more space for LD with his swift overlapping runs. If Coach Bradley implements a 3-5-2 due to injuries, he could slot in as a left wing. His possession and passing game is an upgrade of any of the LB options. Considering that he is average defensively, he still could be our #1 option.
17. Brad Guzan (19)
Keeper
Aston Villa
Overshadowed by US keeper Brad Friedel, Guzan proved his worth in qualifiers and during the Confed Cup. A strong preseason only confirmed his position as the number two man.
18. Jonathan Bornstein (NR)
Defender
Chivas USA
As it currently stands, the Honduran hero would be in. Since his contract expires this season, could we see him move to Europe or possibly Mexico? His defense has improved, but he still needs to work on his touch, passing, and crossing. If Castillo shows well, he could be the odd man out.
19. Troy Perkins
Keeper
Vallerega
With Marcus Hanneman not earning consistent playing time for Wolverhampton, Perkins could earn the third spot in a photo finish.
20. Conor Casey (NR)
Forward
Colorado Rapids
His Honduras performance deserved unconditional praise and not only for scoring the goals. Playing against Everton in the MLS All-Star game, he impressed with his strong hold-up play. Hustle, good finishing, and clever flicks have supplanted Bradley's favorite, Brian Ching.
21. Robbie Rogers (26)
Midfielder
Columbus Crew
The speedy, left winger proved that he can at least compete on the CONCACAF level. Fitness and consistency issuses still exist, but his ability to impact the game, factors heavily in making the squad.
22.Oguchi Onyewu (3)
Defender
AC Milan
Returning from a patella tendon injury will not be easy, coupled with returning to full form and earning playing time appears dim, playing at AC Milan. The US needs Gooch to return to full health.
23. Jay DeMerit (11)
Defender
Watford FC
If he recovers from eye surgery, his presence will provide cover in case Onyewu can not return to form. Other wise, the central defense depth will remain a weakness heading to SA.
On the Outside Looking In
24. Kenny Cooper (24)
Forward
1860 Munish
His move to Germany made an impression on Coach Bradley: he was listed on the 18-man roster against Honduras and Costa Rica. Supplanting Brian Ching this past round suggests that Bradley does rate him highly. The question now remains will Bradley take both Casey and Cooper.
25. Eddie Johnson (27)
Forward
Fulham FC
If EJ can earn valuable playing time for the Whites, Coach Bradley will certainly invite him in again. With Andy Johnson out at Fulham, he must dig deep in practice to earn Coach Hodgson's trust. Not playing will lead to his exlcusion.
26. Robbie Findley (28)
Forward
Real Salt Lake
Most resembling the Davies mold, Findley has made an impact as a RSL super sub. Imagine if he can improve his fitness and playing time, he could make an impact for the USMNT.
27. Michael Orozco
Defender
San Luis CF
Earning consistent playing time in Mexico's Primera Division, the Olympic center back offers versatilty to play at center and left back. Passing, game fitness, and good positional sense makes him a viable candidate.
28. Sacha Kljestan (30)
Midfielder
Chivas USA
After Preki proclaimed Jesus Padilla as the best attacking Chivas midfielder, the US international snapped out of his funk and his been menacing opposing defenses with five goals and two assists: It's almost like there are two Kljestan's playing at once -- he is every where. His strong play can not be ignored, but the current US midfield is loaded and congested with numerous weapons.
29. Freddy Adu
Forward
Belenenses
After earning a first half appearance in Portugal Cup play, Adu needs to seize the opportunity with Davies' absence. Playing time is imperative if the talented forward wants another callup for the upcoming friendlies. Could Adu reunite with Jozy to rekindle the 2007 U-20 World Cup form?
30. Geoff Cameron (NR)
Defender
Houston Dynamo
As a center back this season, he has created stability to the Dynamo back line. If he gains international experience, he could have more upside than Chad Marshall offering versatility to play in all defensive positons. His stock could rise, if he earns playing time this November.
31. Jeff Cunningham (NR)
Forward
FC Dallas
In the quest to find a comparable replacement for Davies, JC can no longer be ignored. Besides leading MLS with 17 goals, he has earned eight assists while he single handedly moved the Hoops to playoff contetion. That statement would have been laughable in June. Although on the wrong side of thirty, JC boasts speed, tenacious work rate, 1v1 ability, and is the most in form striker in the USMNT pool. Coach Bradley considered traveling to San Jose during qualifiers to watch his play. Under Bradley's radar, November should be his chance to shine.
What do you think of the selections? Who would you select for your team? Will Coach Bradley experiment and test new players? Share your thoughts.
Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: USMNT wins the Hex - The 2010 World Cup Depth Chart and Roster
Soccer Goals: After a strong performance to earn the draw agains Costa Rica, despite the US' poor defensive organization, I thought that it would be a good idea to examine potential players to replace Charlie Davies, while he recovers from his injuries. Although I have not ruled him out completely from the World Cup, which might be in error as I draw from my optimistic side, it would be a good idea to start test driving the other Ferrari options that have sit idle in their garages for some time.
After Charlie Davies burst on to the scene with his pace, menacing defensive coverage, and instintive attacking, it became clear to both the USMNT supporters and Coach Bradley that a key component to our offensive success was his speed. His speed unsettled the Spanish and Brazilian back lines in the Confederations Cup and also allowed the USA to draw first blood in Azteca.
If the USMNT wants to continue to unravel defenses, they will need to find a player, who can create space for his teammates. This formula was discovered and flourished in the Confederations Cup, utilized with at least one speedy player at forward while Landon Donovan slotted in at left wing. Simply, the US offense improved tremendously, when the US fielded Charlie Davies.
Will we replace Davies? No. But, several alternatives could maintain the offensive formula for success. Speed kills at the international level, and the USA does have potential waiting in the wings. Here are several players that could provide assistance while Davies is away.
1. Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas): Despite his label as a volatile locker room cancer, 33-year old shelf life, and five year absence from interanational competitiion, the speedy FC Dallas forward has been tearing up the 2009 MLS season since July when star forward Kenny Cooper left for Germany. As soon as Cunningham was annoited the starter and the "man" for the Hoops, he has notched 12 goals since taking over Cooper's position, an effort that has jump started a late FC Dallas playoff run. Producing 17 goals and eight assists in 26 games played and 21 starterd suggests that his stats do merrit an MVP type campaign.
Soccer Videos: Jeff Cunningham's four goal performance against the Wizards.
Normally, I would not clamor for a thirty something forward to be reintroduced to the USMNT. However, his speed, efficient finishing, production, and strong work rate can not be ignored. Besides unsettling opposing defenses with his pace, the former USF Bull offers vision, 1v1 attacking abilities, and carries a chip on his shoulder that motivates his scoring and offers relentless play. His menacing runs would create space for the likes of Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, and Jozy Altidore. If his strong play continues, he should receive a call up against for the Denmark friendly.
2. Eddie Johnson (FC Fulham): Still boasting a strong international career stats with 13 goals in 37 appearances, the Golden shoe winner of the 2003 U-20 World Cup is still at the tender age of 25 years old. After moving to Fulham FC in 2008, EJ has received limited callups. In 2008, when he faced Spain and England in international friendlies, he performed very well holding up the ball, passing, and providing darting runs. His former coach from Bristol City stated that Mr. Johnson deserved starts due to his hard work in training, a previous comment was not synomnous with EJ's play.
Considering that his work rate and ethic undermined his natural talent, it appears that Eddie Johnson learned that relying on his physical tools would only leave him relegated on the bench. As many US supporters suggested that he would be loaned out this season, his preseason play impressed Coach Roy Hodgson who left him on the roster.
What should benefit the former Kansas City Wizard is that the team no longer needs him to assume the scoring load, as Coach Bradley has discovered a successful offensive formula. His inclusion would compliment the US' target forwards (Conor Casey, Brian Ching, or Kenny Cooper), offering speed to create space for them to work in the 18-yard box. Paired with Jozy Altidore, the duo would unravel back lines with the one-two punch of speed and steady hold-up play.
Simply, Eddie Johnson will no longer carry the burden of having to score all the goals, an unfair expectation that was annoited upon him, when he bursted on the USMNT scene in 2004. At this point in his career, his USMNT contribution will be better suited under the current player pool and coaching staff, given that he will not be expected to score all the goals.
3. Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake): When Charlie Davies and Robbie Findley appeared in the group stage of the Olympic qualifiers in 2008, both players were measured at a similiar level. Gifted with athletic frames and loads of pace, their menacing runs unsettled opposing defenses. Selected by Coach Nowak for the Olympic team, Charlie Davies earned his shot in a late game cameo against Nigeria, which earned him a call up to the Confederations Cup, where he garnered praise and attention from the international media.
On the other hand, Robbie Findley discovered success at RSL scoring 16 goals and eight assists in the 2008 and 2009 season. Despite playing limited action in 2009 in the super sub role, the Oregon State Beaver has produced ten goals and three assists, which prompted Coach Bradley to call him in for the El Salvador and T&T qualifiers in September.
Proving super speed, excellent 1v1 attacking abilities, strong passing, and nose for goal, Robbie Findley strikes the closest resemblance to Charlie Davies of the three potential players mentioned. His strong lower body, work rate, nose-for-goal, and underrated offensive instincts suggest that he could follow the yellow brick road to another USMNT experience, receiving another oportunity from Coach Bradley.
One factor has become certain with the USMNT: Speed kills. The offense has regained a new confidence in the lineup with Charlie Davies. These three options would give the USA similar attributes to what Davies boasts in the starting lineup.
Will these player receive call up? They should. The question now is. When?
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What do you think of these options? Do you think Davies has any chance of returning? Who would like to see called up in the future? Share your thoughts.
Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: Who will step up in Charlie Davies abscence?
Soccer videos: With just one day remaining before the match up of USA vs El Salvador, US Soccer presents a look at their drills to bring the US players at full fitness. Who will experience a break out performance? Share your thoughts.
Theses soccer videos feature US training and the L drill.
In these soccer videos, US Soccer offers an inside look at what transpired during the August 12th match between USA vs Mexico, resulting in a 2-1 Mexican victory. It illustrates the intimidation factor of the roaring crowds, the futbol passion, and the oxygen reducing confines as the USMNT ultilizes oxygen tanks before and during the games.
These soccer videos feature a behind the scenes look of USA vs El Tri in Azteca.