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Soccer Goals: As the USMNT suffers injuries to starters at the same alerting rate of super clubs Manchester United and Arsenal, Bob Bradley must utilize his camps to evaluate potential replacements and tinker with his lineups and tactics to prepare for several key omissions.

Soccer Videos: 2010 January Camp Training session

Preparing for the worst will enable Coach Bradley to handle potential setbacks such as injuries, rehab setbacks, and poor player form. Not being proactive and understanding that his starting Xl could suffer the injury bug or club bench relegation, could spell pain and heartache, especially if the staff can not obtain the magical soccer elixir, the remedy that has solved many problems for top international managers and sent the Stars and Stripes to the Confederations Cup final. 

With that in mind, these injury setbacks could be a blessing in disguise as Coach Bradley and crew must formulate alternative tactics, if several key players do not return to full health or top form. First, experimentation and desperation landed Charlie Davies the opportunity to excel as a starter during the Confederations Cup. Second, Landon Donovan found his ideal position, attacking winger, when many coaches slotted him at forward, where he would disappear for stretches during the game. His increased touches have given him confidence and more opportunities to flourish i.e. USMNT circa 2009 and Everton FC.

In the spirit of obligatory experimentation, Coach Bradley should embrace President Obama's campaign slogan "Time for Change" which could help them find the missing pieces to their World Cup puzzle. Who will that be? Your guess is good as mine. But addressing these issues in the upcoming friendlies will quell US supporters' anxiety. Included are my Starting Xl theme for change.  

Best Xl: January Camp Developments

1. Can Jeff Cunningham score again? - No player has been more overlooked and underappreciated than the speedy FC Dallas forward, second place in MLS history with 121 goals (Shawshank Redemption resembles his current story: Will he retire in the Pacific or Caribbean as a heroic national teamer). After scoring 17 goals in the second half of the season, the USF Bull has punished opposing defenses despite his 33-year old veteran legs. His speed and attacking inclinations could lead to his inclusion after Charlie Davies' absence. Auxere paid attention, allowing him to train with them during the MLS break. If he scores in either upcoming friendlies, Coach Bradley will have to take him to Holland.

2. Will Robbie Findley impress internationally? - Considered the other viable option to replace the injured Chuck D, the strong and speedy RSL striker aspires to make a good first impression. His attacking qualities transformed RSL into a contender during the late stages of the season and playoffs. Scoring 12 goals and adding four assists, combined with his 2009 playoff three goals and one assist, catapulted him higher up the US forward depth chart.

3. Jozy Altidore's club status- Unable to score a goal in English Premier League play, the Hull City loanee could fall further down the Tiger's bench, as reinforcements emerge in the form of Egypt's Zaki and Mido. If the hulkish forward continues to receive the red-haired step-child treatment mostly due to his fault, will coach Bradley opt for different tactics, formation, or return to long ball featuring a more consistent but awkward target forward?

4. Clint Demspey's time table uncertain- Continuing with the forward theme, the Deuce appeared poised to shift to forward after flourishing with Fulham, which witnessed wonder goals and bicycle kicks galore. Fast forward thirty minutes of pure Dempsey offensive bliss, and the Deuce suffered moderate ligament damage.  With Deuce potentially out and Jozy on ice, will coach Bradley opt for two speedy-forwards combo, a cumbersome target forward paired with a burner, or move to a 4-5-1 to accommodate for forward dearth while utilizing the multiple midfield options?

5. Mandon (Landon) to forward- As long as it has taken to find his ideal position, the time it now takes me to run a 10k race, the Everton loanee could slide up top to forward  faster than a Usain Bolt 100m race. Let's hope that several forwards will emerge before this tactic is implemented -- it could mean two steps forward but six steps back.

6. Changing tactics- The Confederations Cup roller coaster ride taught us at least one thing, that depth and tactics can yield improvements in performance (Charlie Davies' emergence and the excavation of Donovan's ideal position). If Dempsey is still injured and Altidore's form disintegrates, would coach Bradley be willing to play a two-speedy-forward pairing? Perhaps, a shift to a possession style that would suit Kenny Cooper, Benny Feilhaber, and Paco Torres would be feasible? Injuries might force the hand.

7. Solidify left back- Whether it be the Honduran hero, Jonathan Bornstein, Heath Pearce, and or Tigres speedster Edgar Castillo, the left back position has received more coverage and scrutiny than the Tiger Woods' sex scandal. Considered the favorite by Coach Bradley, Jonathan Bornstein must further solidify his grasps on the position, a one-game wonder that rightly or not deemed him a Messi killer. Pearce still hasn't recovered from his European odyssey, while Castillo performed poorly in a recent Interliga game in which Coach Bradley went to evaluate his play. Though his potential trumps the formers, questions still persist about his discipline and maturity.

8. What is Geoff Cameron's best position? - Finding a place for a versatile and athletic players should be easy for any coach, right? In Cameron's case, his club and country have yet to identify his ideal position. Let's say he suffers from Jonathan Spector syndrome. The Dynamo jack-of-all-trades performed well in the 2009 MLS All Star Game against Everton, where he utilized his speed on the flank as a right back. If he performs well, his skill set could translate well to the next level and could earn him a spot over a more talented but less versatile player.

9. Alejandro Bedoya's inclusion- With few of his games broad casted on FSC or Setanta, few possess knowledge of his Swedish exploits, as many hope to catch his precious minutes but remain frustrated dealing with the volatile live streams. Known for excellent endurance, good speed, and creative attacking qualities, Bedoya's inclusion would be very welcomed considered many supporters have limited knowledge of his game, myself included. Did he impress enough to receive playing time this Saturday? If Donovan shifts to forward, Coach Bradley will embark on a search to find two-way wingers: He might just fit the bill.

10. Kevin Alston vs Marvell Wynne- After experiencing a superb rookie season, Revs right back, Kevin Alston, aspires to impress in the January Camp and during the Honduras game. Boasting speed galore, good technique, lock-down defensive qualities, and a penchant for dangerous overlapping runs, the former U-17 standout must thoroughly impress, having to compete for spots against Cherundolo, Spector, Cameron, Hejduk, and Wynne.

Receiving the short end of the stick debuting in the away qualifier at Estadio Saprissa, where Los Ticos dismantled Bradley's newly minted 4-3-3, right back Marvell Wynne emerged as a victim of the system, a debut performance that did not experience the suspect game that many had felt, which was more due to an inept midfield than his poor play. Although he boasts immense upside which came into fruition in the Olympics and during a seasoned professional career, questions still remain, regarding his awkward touch, defensive skills reliant on athleticism, and limited tactical sense.

Whoever impresses in the ensuing friendlies could make his case for future callups looking forward to Brazil 2014.

11. And the winner is: Edu, Clark, or Jones?- With all three players vying for a World Cup spot, Jermaine Jones and Maurice Edu recovering from injury, while Ricardo Clark embarks on a new German adventure signing with Eintracht Frankfurt, something has to give in the US central midfield. Although it is luxury to boast such an ample stable of holding midfielders, midfield battle could become even more congested if Kyle Beckerman impresses in the upcoming friendlies, especially given the fact that Coach Bradley could adopt different tactics due to the rash of injuries. Though devoid of the athleticism and range of the former mentioned candidates, Beckerman thrives as a ball winner who can provide quick and deft passing, coupled with perpetual movement and reliable offensive interchanges.

Who will impress in the January Camp? Who will score in the upcoming friendlies? Will Honduras expose the USA's dearth of experience? Share your thoughts.

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: SAN Best Xl January Camp Developments

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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: 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: Experimentation was on the mind of many US supporters, when the US faced Slovakia while taking into consideration that the US missed key starters Jay DeMerit, Oguchi Onyewu, Tim Howard, and Landon Donovan. Trying to fill the most key position, that is the loss of Charlie Davies, took a backseat when Coach Bradley selected the forward pairing of Jozy Altidore and Conor Casey.

Soccer Videos: Highlights of Slovakia's 1-0 defeat of the USMNT

Despite starting the game slow and lethargic and giving away a lion share of the possession, Slovakia drew first blood, when winger Weiss terrorized the right flank, turning defender Jonathan Bornstein into a pretzel with a swift fake and dash to the goal. After being beaten by Weiss' speed and skill on the ball, the Chivas USA defender grabbed, Slovakia version of Bradley Jr., immediately resulting in Weiss' Nestea plung in the box and subsequent penalty. In the 27th minute, MarekHamsik's penalty kick secured the victory as the Slovaks were content to defend with ten men and counter attack opportunistically.

What perplexed many bloggers was the starting forward duo of Conor Casey and Jozy Altidore, who created few chances and lost the ball on numerous occasions due to poor hold-up play, a technique and intensity level that would have even infuriated former and legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, who have sprung up from his recliner at the tender age of 99-years old.

As a blogger pointed on another forum, starting Altidore and Casey at the same time is like playing "King Kong andGodzilla". Although the two monsters make laughable but enjoyable movies, the two target forward combo thwarted potential attacks with their poor touch and hold-up play. In their defense, Casey finds greater success when paired with a speedy forward such as Omar Cummings (Colorado Rapids) or Charlie Davies (see Honduran qualifier). Playing without Donvan complicated matters even more, as most of the defensive attention will be directed Donovan's way freeing space for other players to find the seams. Simply, Conor needs that speed player to compliment his game.

On the other hand, the Hull City forward continues to display poor habits for both club and country. His hold up play, off-the-ball energy, and attacking prowess has hit an all time low, creating opportunities for aspiring and speedy forwards. If Jozy Altidore does not improve his consistency and hustle, his starting position andplaying time could find its way into some other motivated players hands. Noted more for his speed rather than his hold-up play, Eddie Johnson demonstrated a better ability to hold up the ball under pressure. Simply, Altidore must improve his whole game.

While many will continue to point out Jonathan Bornstein's poor defensive performance andthe US' lack of scoring chances - both are true  - the USMNT discovered several positive aspects in their defeat. First, keeper Brad Guzan proved after several athletic saves that he has the big play defensive ability of the baseball gold glover, Ozzie Smith. Unlikely to ever play baseball or do a back flip before the start of an inning, Guzandisplayed his ability to make the crucial one-vs-one save that kept the Slovaks to only a one goal outing, the type of diving saves that landed Ozzie Smith in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Secondly, Jonathan Spector stepped into the center back position and proved that he offers the versatility to play anywhere on the defensive front, complimenting the possession game with his efficient and effective distribution. Third, the central midfield duo of Benny Feilhaber and Michael Bradley played a smart and disciplined tactical game, where neither player was caught out of position like in previous games. If and when Maurice Edu and or Jermaine Jones return to top form, Michael Bradley can return to a more advanced role which should create better attacking sequences, while maintaining a strong defensive presence in the midfield.

Let's see how the US players fared amongst Slovakians, whose strategy preferred to defend first and counter second.

Player Grades

Brad Guzan, 8: If questions still persist to whether "The Worm" is a solid second option, he dispelled these uncertainties with several quality saves and good distribution.

Steve Cherundolo, 7: In the first 20 minutes, the Hanover 96 wing back ignited the US attack with his overlapping runs, offensive support, and dribble penetration. His stock continues to rise as his performance will make Coach Bradley's decision at right back more difficult.

Jonathan Spector, 6.5: Not playing in his natural defensive position out wide, Spector demonstrated his continued versatility andimportance to the team. Couple that with his solid distribution and field chemistry, and his South African seat is all but confirmed.  Failing to step up on an offside trap in the second half was only one of the few mishaps on the night.

Jonathan Bornstein, 4: Winger Weiss, Slovakian'scoaches son, had his way with the Chivas USA back, cutting and slaloming Borstein into a contortionist pretzel. Although he struggled with defending dribble penetration, he did offer two solid overlapping runs andcrosses, one of which found Feilhaber for a solid header on goal and the other which landed in the six yard box before being scooped up by the keeper. Maintaining objectivity is difficult when it is clear that Honduran hero does not translate to the international game. Imagine Franc Ribery, Milos Krasic, or Maicon running at him for 60-90 minutes. No thanks! You get the idea.

Clint Demspey, 6.5: Struggled with the first twenty minutes of the game but settled in afterwards providing the majority of the attack from his efforts. His left footed shot in the first half came close and his pass to spring EJ on a run created several of the few attacks in the US arsenal. Considering that Altidorecontinues to struggle with the most basic of fundamentals such as providing defensive energy and hold up play, perhaps the Deuce will finally receive orders to move up a rung on the offensive ladder to play forward.

Michael Bradley, 6: played the holding role to a T. Although his touch failed him on several occassions, the US midfield fixture compensated with hustle, energy, and tactical disclipline. His communication andunderstanding with Feilhaber stood out as the pairing kept possession and neutralized several counter attacks.

Benny Feilhaber, 6: Despite not producing his marquee through ball pass to a spring a teammate, the Aarhus midfielder proved that his game does consist of energy, hustle and 90-minute fitness. This is not the 2008 Feilhaber, who frustrated many because of his immense potential, playing at a lethargic level and squandering his opportunities in training. For example, in the 82nd minute, he lost the ball in the final third, hustled, recuperated the ball, and drew a free kick just outside the box. Playing time in Denmark has instilled confidence and work rate, while his touch and vision continue to be his forte.

Robbie Rogers, 5.5: In my mind, questions still existed to whether Rogers could play a full 90 minutes on both sides of the ball. Inconstistency still plagued his game at the international and club level, but his performance against the Slovaks proved his potential. Most impressive was his ability to maintain possession under pressure.

Jozy Altidore, 4: After this half-hearted effort and many others, I am not sure that he is a sure fire starter. Although he produces an occasional moment of brilliance, his game has been exposed at the European level for having too many holes.

Conor Casey, 4: The duo did not compliment each other, and the bulky forward allowed himself to be bodied off they ball. I know that he won't win any track meets against opposing defenders, but he must improve his hold up play at the next level.

Coach Bradley, 5: Identified Spector as a center back alternate , while stressing that the Bradley and Feilhaber maintain their tactical disclipline.  Starting both Casey and Altidore was unforgivable considering that this was a friendly to discover another speed player. Why did EJ play more in the hold up role than Jozy? EJ should utilize his speed to create space for other teammates. Why did he wait so long to pull out Jozy? Jeff Cunningham should receive more playing time against Denmark.

Subs

Eddie Johnson, 5.5: Seeing Eddie Johnson playing more of a holding forward role was peculiar considering his forte is to create space for the midfield with his daunting runs. On several occasions he held the ball relaying it to another teammate or drawing fouls. If he had more playing time at Fulham, he could push the other forwards for a spot. I want to see more of him against Denmark.

Dax McCarty, 6: The red-haired middy stifled the Slovak counter attack on several occasions, while showing that he boasts the tenacity, range, skill, and passing to play on the international level. I hope to see more of him against Denmark.

Clarence Goodsen, 4: His introduction caused some miscommunication but settled down later as the duo found their ryhthm.

Sacha Kljestan, 4.5: offered two dangerous crosses but turnovered the ball over three times in eight minutes.

Jeff Cunningham, NR: showed hustle and defensive coverage, but eight minutes did not yield enough to get a grade. I want to see more, though.

What did you think of the US' performance? Will Coach Bradley move Bornstein to the bench? Who do you want to see in the next match? Share your thoughts.

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Slovakia neutralizes the USA in a 1-0 victory

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Soccer Goals: It seems almost an eternity after the USMNT defeated El Salvador 2-1. US Soccer just released their post game interviews in these soccer videos. A win in Honduras or a draw against Costa Rica and we will have qualified for the 2010 World Cup. Clint Demspey, Tim Howard, Charlie Davies, and others commented on the comeback victory.

These soccer videos feature Post-game interviews from the USA vs El Salvador game.

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: USA vs El Salvador Post Game interviews

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Soccer Goals: Just as the USMNT left back options have produced a disgraceful pile of poor showing in recent qualifiers, hope and a possible remedy could be brewing south of the border in Mexico, where Michael Orozco scored a goal against Chivas de Guadalajara in a 4-0 route. His speedy Mexican counterpart, Edgar Castillo, earned a full 90 in a 2-1 loss to Morelia on Sunday.

Out-of-favor and out-of-form left back, HeathPearce found redemption and a club, signing a deal withFC Dallas for the remainder of the season, after a promising deal fell through withTurkish side, Bursaspor. Tempted to bring him in for the Galaxy match, Coach Schellas Hyndman though twice, using his common sense, as the Hoops dismantled the Galaxy 6-3. His move to FC Dallas will pull him out of the fiery flames of the relegated players list, at least, for now.

In England's League One, Mike Grella, Jemal Johnson, and Jon-Paul Pittman scored over the past 13 days. Alta IF defender Jay Needham scored an equalized at Sparta Sarpsborg in Norway's first division. All in all it was a poor week for the American's Abroad in the top leagues. The Yanks abroad in Mexico made the biggest statement.

Without further Adu, Soccer Addict News presents to you who impressed and did not dress in the American's Abroad Top Five September 1-13th - Michael Orozco scores in a route.

1. Michael Orozco (San Luis - Mexico): Playing a full 90 minutes last Saturday and holding a scoreless sheet against the explosive Atlas, Michael Orozco scored his first goal of the season against Chivas deGuadalajara, winning 4-0. Withan ability to distribute, strong defensive attributes and versatility to play centrally and out-wide at left back, coupled with his playing time in the competitive Mexican Primera Division, it would be suggestible that Coach Bradley call him up for upcoming friendlies or January camp.

If Coach Bradley is willing to play Carlos Bocanegra at left back, the California native would be an additional option who possesses strong distribution and defensive tenacity. In short, he would be Bocanegra 2.0, a potential upgrade at left back.

2. Edgar Castillo (UNAL Tigres - Mexico):  Playing a full 90 minutes against a America in a 1-1 draw and a 90 minute performance the following week in a 2-1 loss to Morelia, coupled with Jonathan Bornstein's very poor USMNT performances, the New Mexico native has been spotted on the radar at Camp Bradley. With the USA needing a victory against Honduras, will Coach Bradley call him to camp and would he consider deploying him on the left against Honduras? His speed would pose match up problems, but his defense could open cracks for the Honduran attack.

3. Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC): After playing two exhausting qualifiers against El Salvador and Trinidad & Tobago, scoring a goal, the Deuce returned to London to face his Everton goal keeping buddy, Tim Howard. Playing withpassion and plenty of work rate, the creative midfielder willed his team to a 2-1 victory with a 90 minute performance. Although he has performed inconsistently for the USMNT, delivering moments of brilliance and head scratchers at the same time, Dempsey proved his worth with a tidy effort that saw his normal edition of tricks, 1v1 attacking, and solid possession, while mustering enough energy for some defense.

4. Alejandro Bedoya (Obrero SK -Sweeden): Starting and playing 90 minutes in a 1-0 victory over Charlie Davies' former team, Hammarby, would have been a joy to watch, but Davies has moved to greener Pasteur, while Alejandro Bedoya has represented America's presence in Sweeden very admirably. After scoring two goals as a substitute back in July, Alejandro Bedoya has been earning consistent playing time for his team. His decision to bypass MLS and move to Europe is now paying dividends.

5. Mike Grella (Leeds United - Englands League One): Opened his scoring account in league play, netting the game winner against Stockport on September 5th. On Saturday, he came off the bench and played eight minutes in a 0-0 draw against Southend.