USA 1, Honduras 0; Some Quick Thoughts

The United States got their first win of the Jurgen Klinsmann era Saturday night at SunLife Stadium in Miami.  A Clint Dempsey bit of magic in the first half was enough to see the US through, in a match that should've finished at least 2-0 (were we not playing in the CONCACAF confederation where the refs are several sandwiches short of a picnic) and easily could've been 4-0 had Brek Shea and Oguchi Onyewu not flubbed chances with the goal mouth beckoning.  All that aside, one thing is clear: the US is making clear progress under Klinsmann's system.  Now, assuming that against Ecuador we get to see players who deserve to be on the field (aka not Kyle Beckerman or Michael Orozco-Fiscal), then the US faces an Ecuador side who is easily beatable.  They've just had to travel some 3,000 miles from their last match, a 2-0 win against Venezuela in CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying. 

But lets talk quickly about what we saw on Saturday night, having watched the match twice now, I'll give some quick player ratings and later today we'll preview the Ecuador match.

Tim Howard (9)- Howard got back to his old self in this one.  His stop early on Bengston was world class.  An always calming presence in the back.

Steve Cherundolo (6)- A sturdy night from the savvy veteran.  Didn't get forward as often as US fans may be used to.  Had some great set piece delivery as well.

Michael Orozco-Fiscal (3.5)- He continues to underwhelm at the international level.  Have to think that all the faith that Klinsmann has in him is withering away with each poor performance.

Carlos Bocanegra (5)- An unsteady performance from Captain America.  Was that because he was paired with a dismal partner for 45 minutes? Maybe, but he had some poor turnovers in the second half that led to chances for Honduras.

Timothy Chandler (6.5)- Pretty well cemented the left back spot until Steve Cherundolo retires/Eric Lichaj returns from injury.  He combined well with Brek Shea and that relationship led to numerous chances created for the US.

Kyle Beckerman (4)-His stats are particularly woeful: 6 tackles, winning possession back on 2 of them, lost possession on 4 of them, conceding 3 fouls in the process.  Was tackled himself 4 times, losing possession each time.  That says everything I need to know. 

Maurice Edu (6)- Strong play from Edu for most of the night.  Tough in the tackle and decent in his distribution. Deserves another start vs. Ecuador.

Daniel Williams (6.5)- For his first ever camp, to earn his first ever start, that says a whole lot about him, and he rewarded Klinsmann's trust with a strong performance.  Perhaps should've scored on at least one occasion.


Clint Dempsey (8)- Would've been a 9 if not for some poor turnovers that led to chances for Honduras in the first half, but past those, Dempsey had a magical night in the #10 jersey.  I think we've finally found his proper spot.  


Brek Shea (6.5)- Was all over the field, invading down the left but his assist came from the right side.  He has semi-arrived on the international level, lets all remember that was a Honduras B team last night. Let's see what he offers against a full strength Ecuador side.


Jozy Altidore (7)- Jozy is oozing confidence right now and it's just great to see, he's still just 21 and fans are so quick to forget that sort of thing. 

SUBS:


Oguchi Onyewu (6.5)- Instant upgrade over Orozco-Fiscal.  If he doesn't get the start tonight against Ecuador, it will be shocking.

Michael Bradley (6.5)- Completed every single pass once he entered, he deserves the start against Ecuador.

DaMarcus Beasley (6)- Showed the speed on the flank that we all so desperately missed.  I think he has a place in this squad if he continues to do well in Mexico.

Jonathan Spector (6)- Spector is the John O'Shea if the USMNT.  Played well enough in his 20 minutes, and showed that when he's given the time, he can serve a deadly cross.  Was robbed of an assist.  

Juan Agudelo (5.5)- Only on the pitch for 10 minutes, but he was effective running at the backline and in hold up play. 

Klinsmann Names 22 man roster for Honduras and Ecuador Friendly

Jurgen Klinsmann named his latest roster for the upcoming international break.  For anyone who hasn't seen, here it is:

GOALKEEPERS (3): Bill Hamid (D.C.United), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)
DEFENDERS (7): Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), Timmy Chandler (Nürnberg), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Oguchi Onyewu (Sporting Lisbon), Michael Orozco Fiscal (San Luis), Tim Ream (New York Red Bulls), Jonathan Spector (Birmingham City)
MIDFIELDERS (7): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Michael Bradley (Chievo Verona), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Jeff Larentowicz (Colorado Rapids), Brek Shea (FC Dallas), Danny Williams (Hoffenheim)
FORWARDS (5): Juan Agudelo (New York Red Bulls), Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar), DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Teal Bunbury (Sporting Kansas City), Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy)

THOUGHTS
Here goes:

Starting at keeper, am I the only person worried about the sudden lack of depth here??? Tim Howard won’t be around forever and Brad Guzan desperately needs a transfer away from Aston Villa. Rimando is far too small to really be a top keeper on the international level. Hamid looks a fantastic prospect, but he still hasn’t even played an international match at any level, and that’s as green as it gets.

So happy to see Gooch back in the fold. All he has done since battering in the door on Sportings starting line-up is win five consecutive games, and his headed goal was a display of physical authority. Bocanegra is self-explantory. Tim Ream and Michael Orozco Fiscal are obvious head-scratchers, they’ve both been massively underwhelming at the club level this season, despite consistent playing time. I’m not sure what Omar Gonzalez, George John, Geoff Cameron, Michael Parkhurst or AJ Soares have to do to earn callups. When Zak Whitbread returns from injury he deserves a look as well imo.

At outside back, Chandler looks set to be the left back for the next several friendlies, until the return from injury of Fabian Johnson/Eric Lichaj or until Edgar Castillo proves more at the club level. Cherundolo will likely retire from international play during this cycle (along with Bocanegra I might add) so we’re suddenly a bit skinny along the back line. Spector is the John O’Shea of the USMNT.

This midfield has two players who have no hope of making the 2014 World Cup. Why call in Beckerman and Larentowicz? Both are fine MLS caliber players, but lets be honest, if either make the WC2014 roster, something has gone horribly wrong. I could understand these callups if these games meant something as you want you’re best possible and mostly known quantities for competitive matches, but for friendlies, there is a need for experimentation. Why no Bedoya, Diskerud, or Feilhaber, who stand a shot at making the squad for the WC? Really excited to see Daniel Williams and what he can bring to the team. Let me add that if someone could please go to Jonny Evans’ house in Manchester and shoot him in the knee caps with a 12-gauge, I’d appreciate it. I was so looking forward to a Bradley-Holden midfield combo and now it wont be until next summer until we can potentially see it.

As far as the “forwards” go, Im ok with these selections. Glad to see Beasley back in the mix, he’s doing himself well in the Primera. Arguments could be made for Edson Buddle, Hurculez Gomez, Charlie Davies and even (dare I say) Robbie Findley. But I think this is the right group for the time being. Jozy is a one man Europa League nightmare.
OK done

Ninety Plus' 23 for World Cup Qualifying

Haven't had one of these features for several months, but with World Cup Qualifying right around the corner (only some nine months off), it's becoming close to time that Klinsmann get a solid core of players to build around.  This will be a simple post where I'll just drop the 23 players I would call on if World Cup Qualifying started tomorrow.  This group bars all injuries and has no regard for club playing time.  Here we go.

Goalkeepers: Tim Howard (Everton FC), Brad Guzan (Aston Villa FC), Bill Hamid (DC United)

Defenders: Timothy Chandler (FC Nurnberg), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), Clarence Goodson (Brondby), Tim Ream (New York Red Bulls), Zak Whitbread (Norwich City), Eric Lichaj (Aston Villa FC)

Midfielders: Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Michael Bradley (Chievo), Jermaine Jones (FC Schalke), Stuart Holden (Bolton), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca), Alejandro Bedoya (Rangers), Brek Shea (FC Dallas)

Forwards: Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC), Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy), Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar), Juan Agudelo (New York Red Bulls)

So there you have it, what does everyone think?

US International Break Review - One Day at a Time

Jurgen Klinsmann is forty days in to his reign as manager of the United States men's national team.  Thus far it looks an underwhelming start, with a 0-2-1 record through the first three matches.  Through the 270 minutes, the U.S. has had moments of sheer dominance.  Think the second half against Mexico, and the first thirty minutes of Costa Rica.  The U.S. held possession well and created opportunities and when they lost the ball they recovered it quickly.  Even the first thirty minutes against Belgium saw the United States applying the more pressure than their European counterparts.

Holding possession is something the United States is not used to, so implementing this style will take more than three games, or even five games.  Especially when you consider that Klinsmann has been sans a full and fit US roster and will likely be without one for the foreseeable future.  With potential left-back savior Eric Lichaj ruled out until at least the March 2012 friendlies, the left back spot is one which it seems will never be claimed for longer than a few months at a time.  Edgar Castillo was given a two-match run out, and while he wasn't downright awful, it's pretty clear that he's not the answer for the Yanks on the left flank.  Timothy Chandler was given a chance to show his worth on the left side vs. Belgium and acquitted himself fairly enough.  But it's clear that Chandler is the heir apparent to Steve Cherundolo on the right hand side.  Lichaj looked to have locked down that left back spot during his run in the 2011 Gold Cup, until his recent injury. 

However, getting back to the whole possession aspect of the new U.S. team, I refuse to pass judgement on Jurgen Klinsmann until we get to see the full U.S. team in an extended camp.  Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan have yet to be in the same camp together under Klinsmann and players like Lichaj, Stuart Holden, Mikkel Diskerud, Joshua Gatt, Alejandro Bedoya, and Zak Whitbread have yet to get a look at all under Klinsmann for various reasons.  Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones both have only had one look under Klinsmann and that was a couple days of training before the Mexico match. 

My point is, we're in a period where results don't matter.  What we need to be judging here are the players and how they fit in to this attack minded style that Klinsmann is attempting to implement.  When can we begin to clamor for results you ask?  I would even go so far to say as that the upcoming October friendlies vs. Honduras and Ecuador don't really matter in the grand scheme of things.  Do you want to get positive results?  Of course you do.  However, what you want to start seeing most is when in possession that the U.S. be a dangerous and positive side with many chances created.  This was the rant of former U.S. international Taylor Twellman following the Belgium match.  Chance creation.  To create chances but not finish them is one thing, but to hold possession but create no chances is completely another.  It's of utmost importance that the U.S. start creating more chances, to prove to the fans that strides are being made. 

Do that, and the U.S. has an exciting 2012 to look forward to, do it not and it won't be long until fans start calling for Klinsmann's head, along with that of Sunil Gulati's. 

US vs. Costa Rica Preview

Tomorrow night the United States takes on CONCACAF rivals Costa Rica in Carson, California at the Home Depot Center in the first of an international friendly double-header for the United States.  Jurgen Klinsmann welcomed 22 players to the training ground this week however only 20 of those players will be available for selection for the first match vs. Costa Rica.  Clint Dempsey, Kyle Beckerman, and Steve Cherundolo will only be available for the Belgium game on Tuesday and newcomer Fabian Johnson isn't available as he has filed his one-time FIFA switch. 

Since I haven't posted it yet, here is the Costa Rica team set to take on the United States:

Costa Rica Roster by Position
GOALKEEPERS (3): Keylor Navas (Levante), Leonel Moreira (Herediano), Danny Carvajal (A.D. San Carlos).

DEFENDERS (8):Christopher Meneses (Alajuelense), Carlos Johnson (Cartaginés), José Salvatierra (Alajuelense), Michael Umaña (Chivas USA), José Mena (Saprissa), Roy Miller (New York Red Bulls), Roy Smith (Orión FC), Johnny Acosta (Alajuelense).

MIDFIELDERS (8): Randall Azofeifa (Genclerbirligui), Michael Barrantes (Aalesund), Allen Guevara (Alajuelense), Kareem Mclean (Limón FC), David Guzmán (Saprissa), Rodney Wallace (Portland Timbers), Cristian Bolaños (FC Copenhagen), Álvaro Sánchez (A.D. San Carlos).

FORWARDS (5): Daniel Colíndres (Santos de Guápiles), Randall Brenes (Cartaginés), Josué Martínez (Saprissa), Álvaro Saborio (Real Salt Lake), Winston Parks (FK Baki).

Clearly, this isn't Costa Rica's first choice team.  The side included veterans like Alvaro Saborio and Michael Umana, but missing are GK Esteban Alvarado (AZ Alkmaar), DF Bryan Oviedo (FC Copenhagen), Junior Diaz (Wisla Krakow), DF Gilberto Martinez (Sampdoria), DF Christian Gamboa (FC Copenhagen), MD Christian Bolanos (FC Copenhagan), FW Bryan Ruiz (Fulham FC), Marco Urena (Kuban Krasnodar), and Joel Campbell (Arsenal FC).  As you can see, lots of talent left out for the Ticos.  Tons of youth called in for Jorge Luis Pinto, who will look to build on their quarterfinal appearance in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. 

As for the United States, here is how I see Klinsmann lining up:



First lets discuss the midfield.  This formation gives Maurice Edu and Jonathan Spector proper shots in the holding midfield roles with the absence of Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones.  The United States has had depth in central midfield for years but with Bradley on the move to Serie A with Chievo Verona and Jones unable to find consistent pitch time for Schalke, Edu, who is cemented as a starter for Rangers and Spector, who has found a starting job in Birmingham City's midfield following his summer transfer there, are set for their chance to impress Klinsmann.  Ahead of them will be Jose Torres who wasn't deployed in a position to succeed against Mexico to start the game, but after halftime when he was shifted to the middle from the left flank was really able to link up from the midfielders to the wingers and forward.  Torres gets his chance in the play-maker role for me.  Your wingers/attacking midfielders are Landon Donovan and Sacha Kljestan.  Donovan is spearheading MLS leading LA Galaxy through both the domestic league and the CONCACAF Champions League.  No hard decision to start Donovan in front of his hometown fans.  Sacha Kljestan has nailed down a starting role in the attacking third for Belgian powerhouse Anderlecht, who this season find themselves in the Europa League.  Kljestan is in a good run of form and deserves the start based on that.  I'm ordinarily a Kljestan knocker, however for my money, I'm willing to give him a chance in the same stadium where he scored a hat trick for the US back in January 2008 vs. Sweden. 

The back-line is pretty straight forward.  Timothy Chandler is your right-back starter, has to be, no excuses.  Clarence Goodson and Carlos Bocanegra renew their acquaintances in the center of the back after a pretty successful run during the Gold Cup this past June.  Edgar Castillo gets a second consecutive run-out on the left hand side, where this time I expect we'll actually get to see him bomb forward up the pitch against a lesser opponent, all the while not having to worry about covering Pablo Barrera.  Chandler and Castillo will be expected to provide the width for the US attack.  They both have pace for days and crossing ability to match. 

Up top is the reborn Jozy Altidore.  Jozy has scored five goals in five games played for AZ Alkmaar so far.  All this following his two goals in three and a half games played in the Gold Cup.  Jozy is in form right now, and the best part is watching how he is scoring.  He's making intelligent, timely runs.  He's playing with confidence and I expect that to transfer to the Costa Rica match in particular against what will likely be a relatively inexperienced back-line.

There you have it, now it's time to simply play the waiting game until tomorrow nights match, which is set for 8pm Pacific time and you can watch on ESPN2, ESPN3.com, or Galavision.  COME ON YOU YANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Some quick hit roster updates

FC Dallas defender Zach Loyd and Chivas USA defender Heath Pearce have both withdrawn from the camp roster to face Costa Rica and Belgium due to injuries picked up during their clubs matches this past weekend.  No big losses there.  They've been replaced by Birmingham defender Jonthan Spector and DC United midfielder Chris Pontius.  Spector comes into the side for the first time since the Gold Cup and while Pontius has made a camp roster (January 2011) he did not play. 

Also coming out today that Clint Dempsey will not join the team in Los Angeles but will meet up with them in Brussels.  According to US Soccer, Dempsey seem's to have back spasms, however I think he's been left off because there is currently much transfer speculation surrounding the Fulham ace.  Sevilla, Paris Saint-Germain, and Aston Villa have all been mentioned as suitors.  Dempsey is currently chasing Champions League play, which Fulham likely will never be able to give him.

More transfer news today, apparently Michael Bradley has or is close to signing with Italian Serie A side AC Chievo Verona.  This would be a good move as I think Bradley's style of play suits him best for Serie A or the Bundesliga. 

More to come as it lands.  Stay tuned.

Who Are These Guys?

So unless you live in a cave deep in the mountains somewhere, you've probably seen the 24-man U.S. roster released for the upcoming friendlies against Costa Rica and Belgium.  For our friends who very may well live in a cave, here is the roster:

Goalkeepers (2): Tim Howard, Bill Hamid

Defenders (9): Carlos Bocanegra, Edgar Castillo, Timmy Chandler, Steve Cherundolo, Clarence Goodson, Zach Loyd, Michael Orozsco Fiscal, Heath Pearce, Tim Ream

Midfielders (9): Kyle Beckerman, Clint Dempsey, Maurice Edu, Fabian Johnson, Sacha Kljestan, Jeff Larentowicz, Robbie Rogers, Brek Shea, Jose Torres

Forwards (4): Teal Bunbury, Jozy Altidore, Juan Agudelo, Landon Donovan

That "mehhh" you're hearing is the collective moaning of thousands of U.S. fans who have pretty much expected the "best" US players to be called in, regardless of playing time, which is primarily what we saw under Bruce Arena and Bob Bradley.  This roster is what the United States looks like when you simply call in players based on their club playing time.  Every player on the roster has been seeing significant time lately for their respective clubs.

Terrifying isn't it?

There is a sheer litany of players who most fans consider "more promising", or "better", what ever you to call it, who aren't here, because they aren't seeing consistent playing time.  Jurgen Klinsmann is not just paying lip service to only calling in players who are playing full matches with their clubs consistently.  Let's just take a quick look at some guys who have been left off for this pair of friendlies for not playing much at their clubs:

Brad Guzan
David Yelldell
Eric Lichaj
Oguchi Onyewu
Jonathan Spector
Michael Bradley
Jermaine Jones
Ricardo Clark
Alejandro Bedoya

Now a list of players who have been meeting the "playing time" clause, but who've been left off for various reasons:

Zak Whitbread
Michael Parkhurst
Mikkel Diskerud
George John
Josh Gatt
Stuart Holden
Edson Buddle
DaMarcus Beasley
Robbie Findley
Chris Rolfe

Lots of players listed there isn't it?

But there's nothing we as the fans can do so we'll move on to the actual roster itself, which despite the lack of some of the "regulars", is quite strong.  Klinsmann has clearly determined in his mind who the U.S. goalkeeper of the future is going to be.  Bill Hamid receives his second consecutive camp call-up under Klinsmann, despite Hamid picking up what looked to be a nasty hamstring injury just last week.  But he's healed and he's here.  I'm happy for the kid. 

Defenders are pretty much who we though they would be right?  Not surprised at the inclusions of Heath Pearce and Zach Loyd.  Timothy Chandler WILL be there, WILL play, back away from the edge, EVERYONE.  Clarence Goodson and Carlos Bocanegra are you're CB pairing I believe, despite Michael Orozco's yeoman's performance from earlier this month.  Edgar Castillo with his second consecutive call-up, and he'll likely get a start in at least one of the matches. 

The midfield corp has an interesting name in it, that name being Fabian Johnson.  The Hoffenheim midfielder/defender is yet another "born in Germany to an American service man" product.  He's been a bit of a journeyman the last couple seasons, but prior to that, was a regular with German youth sides, so you can be assured of his quality.  He has played leftback a couple of times this season for Hoffenheim, but he's primarily deployed on the right hand side of midfield, where in his last match he earned an assist and drew a penalty with a darting run into the box.  I think he could very well see a Chandler/Johnson right hand side combination.  Massive chance for Maurice Edu here.  The absence of Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones gives Edu the proper shot he deserves to nail down a starting job in central midfield. 

The strike-force includes Teal Bunbury, his first call up since the January camp.  Jozy Altidore has scored braces in his last two games for new club AZ Alkmaar.  Donovan and Agudelo fill out the other roles.  Straight forward.

Potential starting eleven, for both matches, as Klinsmann will need to develop some kind of continuity heading towards World Cup Qualifying which will start for the United States in June of next year with a group that will include Jamaica, and will likely include Guatemala and Haiti.  Here is an intriguing eleven to consider:

What about that?  Dangerous?  Let me know what you think.

Players will begin arriving on Monday in Los Angeles for the match against Costa Rica.

We're Baaaackkk; Determining the Kaizers Corps.

Alright, a quick post here while I'm up and thinking about our new system and manager.

Understand that the recent 1-1 draw with Mexico in Philadelphia was with incomplete squads from both sides.  While the result is a fantastic one for the United States considering the circumstances, it must be taken with a grain of salt.  Understand that our goal came: after many of Mexico's starters had been removed, after fresh US legs were brought on, and after Klinsmann and moved players around a bit.  Also understand that the U.S. should've been awarded a penalty and at least one Mexican player should've seen a red card. 

But that's all in the past.  What matters is the selection of players and the style of play the U.S. will be going for under the direction of Jurgen Klinsmann.  With the Costa Rica match just eleven days away, I'll be taking a gander at who I think will make the single roster for the United States.  Yes, it will be a single roster, comprised of all A team guys or future A team guys, as Klinsmann alluded too in his post-match press conference.

Without further adieu, here are my best guesses for roster selection:

GK (3): Tim Howard (Everton FC), Brad Guzan (Aston Villa FC), Quentin Westberg (Evian)

DF (9): Timothy Chandler (FC Nurnberg), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Clarence Goodson (Brondby), Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), George John (Blackburn), Michael Parkhurst (FC Nordsjaelland), Zak Whitbread (Norwich City), Edgar Castillo (Club America), Eric Lichaj (Aston Villa FC)

MD (7): Alejandro Bedoya (Rangers), Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht), Jermaine Jones (FC Schalke), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca), Mikkel Diskerud (Stabaek), Brek Shea (FC Dallas)

FW (6): Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy), Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC), Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar), Josh Gatt (Molde), Juan Agudelo (New York Red Bulls), Chris Rolfe (Aalborg BK)

For those keeping track, yes I named 25 players.  Not uncommon for dual international fixture dates. 

REASONING
First, let me introduce you (or perhaps reintroduce you) to Quentin Westberg, a former US youth international, who has built his way into a backup role for recently promoted, Ligue 1 club Evian.  With the clubs starting GK out injured, Westberg filled in extravagantly, earning his club a 2-2 draw away from home vs. Brest, and then opened his shutout account at home when Evian beat established club Nice 1-0.  He's still just 25 years old and seems to be in a positive situation in France.  Why not give him a look?  Bring in someone else to push Brad Guzan a bit. 

Nine defenders asks you?  Yes says I.  The strange choice obviously is George John, currently in the midst of a transfer from MLS side FC Dallas to EPL side Blackburn Rovers.  How is he able to do that?  He flew today to Greece to get his Grecian Passport and ID, making him a European and easing his way into a work visa.  He's received call-ups from both the United States (under Bob Bradley for the January camp) and by Greece, but had to withdraw both times on account of injuries.  However, if given the choice, it is understood that John would welcome a call from the United States, especially under Klinsmann, more than Greece.  However, it is still important that we establish to John that we have a clear and determined interest in his future with the United States.  No better way than calling him up for two big friendlies. 

Also, I've included the maligned Edgar Castillo, who didn't necessarily impress in his first start with the US, but was solid enough to merit another look.  He's a Klinsmann kinda guy, good on the ball, quick on the counter, and if continuously given chances, I think he will impress.  Michael Parkhurst and Zak Whitbread make for some eyebrow raising as well.  But both are starters for their clubs, one in the EPL and the other is a Europa League club.  They've earned it.  Call em' up. 

First thing everyone will notice about the midfielders is the exclusion of Michael Bradley.  This is a bit of a guess on my part, but right now, he's played one game since June 25.  With his impending transfer away from Borussia Monchengladbach, there is no need to take him away from his new club for the first week.  He'll be left off, I can feel it.  The rest are pretty self-explantory, the exception being the inclusion of Mikkel Diskerud.  News has come up of late of Norways call up of Diskerud for Norways upcoming European qualifiers.  I for one would NOT allow this to happen, even if it's true or not.  Diskerud needs to be reassured of his spot in this team, and a callup for some high profile friendlies is the way to do it.  Brek Shea earns another extended look for his performance against Mexico.  Also, don't get caught up in all the hullabaloo about Kyle Beckerman and Robbie Rogers.  These two are fringe players at best.  Beckerman is a great MLS/CONCACAF level player, but he's also 29, and the US has better/younger players in the same position.  Rogers wasn't even named to the last camp roster until an injury forced out Maurice Edu.  Stuart Holden, though he has returned to full training with Bolton, likely won't be match fit for a couple more weeks, no need to call him in at this time as we need him healthy for 2012 and the start of qualifying. 

I've named six forwards, which sounds a bit much, but I think it's necessary for nailing down who your top 4-5 are going to be moving forward.  The intriguing pick here is Chris Rolfe, who's been on a bit of a tear lately with his Danish club Aalborg.  After finally seeing off some injury issues since his move away from MLS, Rolfe has nailed down a starting job and impressed.  In my opinion, he's earned it.  The other five are self explanatory, except maybe Agudelo, who is an inconsistent starter for NYRB these days, but he's obviously one for the future. 

NOTES
Possible inclusions to look out for: Freddy Adu, Michael Orozco, DaMarcus Beasley, Michael Bradley, and Ricardo Clark, based on simply being called up for the Mexico match.

Deutschland born, US eligible players such as David Yelldell (who has already featured for the US in 2011), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin), and Daniel Williams (SC Freiberg) could all get calls.

Been away long?  Players like Oguchi Onyewu, Jonathan Spector, and dare I say it...Robbie Findley, could possibly get a call to check in on their progress with their new clubs.  I just threw up...a bit.

It is understood that MLS has twice knocked offers for Tim Ream...from ARSENAL!  As an Arsenal fan, this appalls me, both that MLS royally screwed over Ream, and that Arsenal see Ream as a solution.  Not that Ream couldn't do well at Arsenal, because he very well could be a starter for the Gunners at the current time with all the injuries along the back line.  But if Tim Ream is good enough to catch Arsene Wengers eye, then Ream has the quality to move to Europe sooner rather than later.  Ream turns 24 in a couple months, and past that, has maybe 4-5 years of prime playing years.  Ream could be brought along for Euro scouts to take a peak at on European soil. 

Jurgen's First Staff Named

From the ussoccer.com USMNT Blog:

Martin Vasquez - Vasquez re-unites with Klinsmann after serving as an assistant coach at Bayern Munich. Currently he is the head coach and Director of Soccer Operations for the U.S. Soccer Development Academy U-16 and U-18 teams of the Real Salt Lake AZ Academy. One of only two players to represent both the United States and Mexico at the international level, he was the head coach of Chivas USA in 2010.

Thomas Dooley - A former U.S. captain and National Soccer Hall of Fame member who played in two World Cups and competed against Klinsmann in the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, the German-American had a long professional career that included a Bundesliga and German Cup title with Kaiserslautern and a UEFA Cup title with Schalke 04. A member of the MLS Best XI as part of the Columbus Crew in 1997 and 1998, he went on to coach FC Saarbrucken in Germany before returning to the United States where he was part of the coaching staff for Pateadores that just captured the 2011 Development Academy U-17/18 championship.

Tab Ramos - Born in Uruguay, the legendary midfielder for the U.S. National Team played in three World Cups en route to earning 81 caps for the United States. Known for his flair and creativity on the ball, the Hall of Famer played professionally in Spain and Mexico before becoming the first ever signing for Major League Soccer, where he spent six seasons with the MetroStars in New York. Ramos founded NJSA 04, a club which is a member of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy.

Mike Curry - A goalkeeper coach with more than 37 years experience, Curry has trained goalkeepers at the club, state and college levels since 1974. A member of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Goalkeeper Institute staff, he teaches courses at the regional and national levels and spent eight years with U.S. Soccer Development Academy club FC DELCO. Prior to his coaching career, he played collegiately at then Division II powerhouse University of Baltimore.

Mark Verstegen - One of the foremost leaders and innovators in athletic training, Mark Verstegen is owner and president of Athletes' Performance, which provides athletes with cutting-edge training based on the latest sports science. Vestergen handled the fitness preparations for the German National Team prior to the 2006 FIFA World Cup in which Klinsmann led the team to a third-place finish. Named the Director of Performance for the NFLPA in 2002, he is the author of Core Performance, which reached the top 25 on Amazon within six weeks of its release and has sold more than 100,000 copies.

Jurgen Names Fresh Squad for Mexico Friendly

Jurgen Klinsmann's announcement as the new head coach of the United States Men's National Team was sure to bring with it a change in philosophy and perhaps a phasing in on a new crop of performers for the squad.  We learned, not to much, but a little bit about what perhaps to expect from future rosters.  Maybe.  Or so we'd like to think.  Here is the 22 man roster named for Jurgen Klinsmann's first ever camp:

U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION -
GOALKEEPERS (2): Bill Hamid (D.C.United), Tim Howard (Everton)
DEFENDERS (8): Carlos Bocanegra (Saint-Etienne), Edgar Castillo (Club America), Timmy Chandler (FC Nürnberg), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Clarence Goodson (Brondby), Michael Orozco Fiscal (San Luis), Heath Pearce (Chivas USA), Tim Ream (New York Red Bulls)
MIDFIELDERS (7): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Michael Bradley (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Ricardo Clark (Eintracht Frankfurt), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04), Brek Shea (FC Dallas), José Torres (Pachuca)
FORWARDS (5): Freddy Adu (Benfica), Juan Agudelo (New York Red Bulls), DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Edson Buddle (FC Ingolstadt), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy)

At first glance, a couple things are certain: Klinsmann values the Primera Division in Mexico more highly than Bob Bradley, with four US players being called in from the league in DaMarcus Beasley, Edgar Castillo, Jose Francisco Torres, and Michael Orozco Fiscal.  And it doesn't appear to phase Klinsmann that Edson Buddle and Ricardo Clark aren't playing in a top flight, being called in from FC Ingolstadt and Eintracht Frankfurt respectively.  This is the first time those two have been apart of the US squad since the World Cup, throw in Beasley and Torres into that mix as well.  Orozco hasn't seen a US camp since 2008 for the camp against Cuba and Trinidad & Tobago.

Brek Shea is tearing through MLS/CONCACAF right now has earned this call up.  Hopefully he performs better than in his previous outings vs. Colombia in 2010 and Chile in 2011. 

Timothy Chandler puts to bed the rumors of him considering a change to the German national team and looks sure to start at right back with the aging Steve Cherundolo looking at bringing the youthful Nurnberger along to full time right back for the nats. 

Most surprising picks in the bunch include the aforementioned Castillo, Beasley, Orozco Fiscal, Clark, along with the inclusions of Real Salt Lake's Kyle Beckerman and DC United's young goalkeeper Bill Hamid. 

Freddy Adu returns to the US side in the hopes of continuing to revitalize his soccer career, since it looks like he's still not in Benfica plans.  A good run of form is just what Adu needs to secure a transfer away from the Portuguese powerhouse. 

The abundance of CMs and wide players are leading most to speculate that we'll see a 4-3-3 formation.  While I don't necessarily disagree with this prediction, Klinsmann has always been a strict 4-1-3-2 guy, with a single deep lying CDM who keys on distribution and an advanced CM who's more attack minded.  But the roster does lend itself to a more perhaps diamond central midfield set up, with wingbacks and wingers providing the width. 

Surprise absences?  Ohhhh, let's see, we can chalk up Jozy Altidore, Ogychi Onyewu, Jonathan Spector, and Herculez Gomez as the crew who've just joined new clubs and need time to integrate (Altidore with AZ Alkmaar in Holland, Onyewu with Sporting in Portugal, Spector with Birmingham City in England, and Gomez with Estudiantes in Mexico).  These are all fine for me.  Eric Lichaj reportedly picked up a knock during a preseason match in Aston Villa's trip to China so he was ruled out.  Brad Guzan is trying to lock down the Villa goalkeeping job so he was ruled out. Clint Dempsey just today played his first match back with Fulham in their Europa League win and it's likely just that Dempsey needs to remain with his club in England instead of flying over for a few days, guy has deserved a rest and we'll see him in September for the Belgium match I'm sure.  Alejandro Bedoya is an interesting exclusion, but his club was reluctant to see him leave for the Gold Cup and there's no sense in Klinsmann fighting with a club over their most important player for a single friendly.  Sacha Kljestan is a marginal exclusion at best, and another we likely see against Belgium.  Stuart Holden just returned to light training for Bolton so no need to bring him in.  Mikkel Diskerud and Joshua Gatt are also surprise exclusions since both have been playing well for their clubs in Norway, however, these are two more guys that we likely see make the trip to Belgium so I won't complain much.  Chris Rolfe and Michael Parkhurst are two other Scandinavian players who are missing out on this camp, despite playing well for their respective clubs (Aalborg and Nordsjaelland).

Potential starting 11s?  I'll throw two out since there seems to be some disparity over if we'll see the 4-3-3 or the 4-1-3-2.  First the 4-3-3:

 

4-1-3-2

These are my two guesses, and to be honest I'd be fine with either.  I will caution that Donovan, Adu, and Beasley have all been named forwards in this roster, and not as midfielders as they've often been previously listed.  We'll see what Klinsmann has up his sleeve however.  Six days until the match.

Bob Bradley Dismissed

Bob Bradley is OUT.  The USSF announced today that Bob Bradley has been dismissed as the coach of the US Men's National Team.  The announcement ends a run of over four years at the helm for Bob, who compiled a 43-25-12 record through 80 matches in charge.   The change comes at an awkward time for the program, as Grant Wahl reported that the coaches were working on player notifications for the forthcoming USA-Mexico friendly in 13 days.  If that's to be believed, then one can only surmise that negotiations for the incoming coach had simply taken around a month to finally finalize. 

The USSF is making a "further announcement" tomorrow around 12pm EST, which is heavily rumored to be the new manager announcement.  Grant Wahl tweeted earlier today that the new man will be "someone that US fans are familiar with."  So good money (and most rumored) is on Jurgen Klinsmann.  Other names that continue to pop up include Peter Nowak, Jason Kreis, and Marcelo Lippi. 

What is my take?  I personally think that Bob Bradley has simply taken the US as far as he could.  Any and everyone could see that the US system had begun to stagnate and that time for a change was fast approaching.  I would like to personally thank Bob Bradley for everything that he and his staff have accomplished over the last four+ years, but time for change is now. 

2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup: What Went Right

I've been strained for time here at NP, but one thing I have made sure to do in my sparse spare time is watch every US match for the entirety of the tournament...expect the final 65 minutes of the final, which would have required me to purchase a new TV.  But that's for another post on another day.  I want to discuss the positives from the US point of view exiting this tournament. 

1.) The Return of Freddy Adu
The US poster boy for over-hype and crazy expectations shut up an entire soccer nation.  Millions of US fans, and yours truly, doubted, criticized, and lambasted Bob Bradley for picking a player who hadn't played in the US kit in over two years, nor who had played top flight football for most of the past season.  Adu proved everyone wrong, and even showed off a bit of humble pie following his performance against Panama in the semi-finals.  It was his inch-perfect pass to Landon Donovan that created the games only goal.  Bob Bradley can chalk this one up in the win column.  Now all Freddy has to do is find a top flight club where he can get significant minutes, be that in Portugal, Turkey, France, Denmark, wherever.  It's impossible not to cheer for Adu at this point.

2.) Offensive Chance Taking
Let me say before I start that this is about CHANCE TAKING, not CHANCE FINISHING.  Two completely different things.  Through the six Gold Cup matches the United States reeled off an incredible 90 shots for an average of 15 per game.  That's an impressive clip and shows signs of a positive offensive mindset.  With Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore leading the line (until Altidore's injury in the quarter-finals), the US' attack was taking chances. 

3.) US Role Players on the Rise
Kudos to Alejandro Bedoya, who for some peculiar reason was left off the initial Gold Cup roster.  Easily earned the US' hustle award for the entirety of the tournament.  His high work rate was a welcome jolt of energy in to a defense that seemed more content to keep shape and allow teams to control the ball in front of them.  Bedoya's charges turned the ball over in the US' favor and his never-ceasing cascades down the right flank whilst Landon Donovan recover from some unknown ailment made him a all tournament performer in my book for the U.S.  Sacha Kljestan is another who's time in Europe is proving key for his development as a player.  No longer is he a straight-forward single minded player, but a well rounded central midfielder, able to possess and distribute accordingly. 

4.) Left Fullback Conundrum? SolvedWelcome to the show Eric Lichaj.  The 22 year old Aston Villa man has made a place for himself on the left flank of the US team.  It was Lichaj's inclusion starting with the Guadeloupe game that started a US 3-game shutout run.  Lichaj's physical grit and pace down the left flank hasn't been seen since Heath Pearce did so for the US during 2008.  This one is solved for Bradley and Co.

So what does everyone think about the positive of the Gold Cup?  Any you think I missed?  Let me know in the comments!

Apologies for the delays.  Life it seems is finally catching up with me.  Post's are nowhere near as frequent, but not because I don't care.  It's simply that summer school, work, and some personal issues have hampered my free time and sapped my strength.  Will be taking a leave of absence for awhile, possibly with the occasional post concerning the US matches or player transfers.  I refer everyone to the Shin Guardian for complete coverage of US Soccer.  Thank you all.

COME ON YOU YANKS!

Picking Up the Pieces: Spain 4, USA 0

No review for this, since not a lot went right, except ticket sales.  Back later tonight with a Canada preview.  Don't flip out just yet. 

USA vs. Spain Impromptu, Short & Sweet Preview

Almost two years to the day that the U.S. beat up on the European and World Cup Champion Spain in South Africa.  The United States' gauntlet of CONCACAF Gold Cup preparation matches concludes this Saturday with a long awaited rematch of CONCACAF and UEFA powerhouses.  Gone are Charlie Davies and Jay DeMerit, whose roles in that match proved to be the difference, gone also is Benny Feilhaber, the catalyst for the second goal. 

Here is what we know though.  It. Is. Spain.  Expect your typical beautiful, intricate passing moves in an effort to try and break down the US backline.  But this Spain team is not without it's own key players.  Xavi Hernandez, Cesc Fabregas, Carles Puyol, and Jesus Navas are absent.  But typical of Spain, their depth is unmatched.  Here is a likely starting 11 for La Furia Roja:

With the absence of Xavi, the attack will likely flow through the feet of Iniesta, out wide to Silva and Pedro, then lashed in to a box-rushing Villa, or cut back for a distance shot from Xabi or Busquets. 

Simple enough with Spain, but what the U.S. will do is really difficult to predict, as Bob Bradley has shown with his insane roster call-ups, but that's neither here nor there.  The U.S. will play in one of two formations; the 4-5-1 they employed vs. Argentina which worked for a half or so, or the 4-4-2 which didn't really serve them so well vs. Paraguay.  Knowing the conservative Bob Bradley like we do, we figure he'll go with the 4-5-1, in a manner resembling this:

The midfield triumvirate of Jones/Edu/Bradley will try to contain the short passing and movement ahead of the back four, with Jones the likely candidate to draw the assignment on Iniesta.  The U.S. seems to favor an attack down the opponents left flank, this time towards Capdevila, which worked wonders for them last time.  Recall that it was Capdevila who was tossed aside by Jozy for the first U.S. goal, and then a turnover from Spain's left led to the counter-attack for the second.  Worked last time, why not have another go?  Capdevila is two years elder now at 33, and with a blossoming Dempsey and youthful Jozy pounding away, one would think that the U.S. can come away with one or perhaps even two again at his expense. 

Look for younger, inexperienced guys like Eric Lichaj and Tim Ream to get an extended run out for this match, they need the experience.  Throw in Freddy Adu, Juan Agudelo, and Alejandro Bedoya into that mix as well. 

Alejandro Bedoya Added, Benny Feilhaber Subtracted

As NP predicted a few days ago, Benny Feilhaber's ankle injury was deemed too bad for consideration in the 2011 Gold Cup, a shame, but life goes on.  Alejandro Bedoya now comes into camp fresh off a dominant (so far) season in Sweden. 

Gold Cup Musings

Well now that I've managed to get into blogger through an entirely different browser, no thanks to Firefox, we can throughly examine the clusterbomb of a roster and what Bob Bradley must be thinking.  Or rather, perhaps what narcotics he's on?

I assume everyone has already seen the roster by now, so no use in posting it.  I'd much rather avoid it for the purpose of keeping my walls without fist holes in them. 

Let's just go ahead and get this out of the way, I'm sure that there were discussions taking place for guys like Teal Bunbury, Alejandro Bedoya, and Timothy Chandler between the USSF and their respective clubs.  Let me clearly state that I do not believe in any conspiracy theories about Timothy Chandlers international situation.  Chandler I'm sure has had thoughts about playing for Germany, however, with Philip Lahm, Jerome Boateng, and Andreas Beck already being implanted right backs with much more international experience.  There is nothing to be had for Chandler on the German national team.  Now, would Nurnberg have released Chandler if it was Germany who came calling, as opposed to the United States?  I'm go on record and say I think it's more likely, IF that were the case, which it is not.  I think Nurnberg put simply that Chandler needs the rest after his first full professional season, and this will give him the chance to firmly put his foot in the door as Nurnbergs official starting right back.  It is a marginally acceptable exclusion, assuming he continues to start at Nurnberg.

Now, let me discuss the inclusions of Robbie Rogers and Freddy Adu.  Two players who (before the roster release) were so far on the fringes of the national team picture that no one's predicted rosters (including my own) even considered Adu or Rogers, et all.  Alejandro Bedoya's exclusion is by far the most bamboozling exclusion, more so than Chandler or Bunbury.  Bedoya is having a dream season in Sweden and his last match highlights I saw he had two goals and an assist.  Whatever Orebro told Bedoya, or Bradley, it scared one or both enough for Bedoya to be left off.  It's a shame, because league strength not withstanding, he's having one of the best seasons by an American oversea's.  Robbie Rogers meanwhile isn't even a for sure starting player in Columbus, and yet he is the SOLE wide midfielder on the roster, it's simply perplexing on every level.  Freddy Adu, who has been playing well of late, scoring goals and playing full matches, but it's all in the Turkish 2ND DIVISION!  I mean, I love Freddy and I think he has a future with this team, but I'm not sure that that time is now.  Now, if there is one player on this roster who can make us all eat crow, it's Adu.  He is highly capable of magical passes and has 1v1 ability unseen anywhere else in the US player pool.  But has he grown up enough to take training seriously and to play defense?  We shall see.

Chris Wondolowski isn't really a surprising pick, considering last years goal explosion, and seemingly has continued that touch this year with 6 goals so far this season.  That being said, he has all of a single cap, against a Chilean "C" squad, where he failed to impress.   He is also 28 years old, and if Wondo is still a viable option come World Cup 2014, then something has gone terribly wrong.  Bunbury would be the more obvious choice for me, simply because of his youth and it seems that he will have a future within the US system.  Wondolowski does not, nor should he.

Now then, the bulk of the roster is made up of guys who we generally assumed would be there, and to be honest, how often do the 21st and 22nd players on the roster actually play in the tournament?  Maybe one match?  So it's fine in that regard, but I am of the belief that for your confederations tournament, you should call in your BEST 23 players, regardless of club wishes.  For me, obviously, that would include Chandler, Bedoya, and Bunbury, in place of Rogers, Adu, and Wondolowski.

Now just yesterday broke the news that Benny Feilhaber was injured in his club match with New England, and today is walking around in boot.  This likely means that Feilhaber is out, and someone (hopefully Bedoya) is in.  But that news will break when it does, this is all speculatory at this point from me. 

With the Spain match just now six days away, expect a lineup breakdown and match preview on Wednesday and Thursday.  Until then, play for Bob Bradley's dealer. 

Alright we're back online...

Apologies, circumstances beyond my control have limited my appearances lately, but now we're back, and we have seven US games to prepare for in the next month.  First comes the roster discussion, then the US-Spain breakdown.  I'm backkkkk. 

Paraguay Quick Thoughts and Player Ratings

Well what a rough patch for the United States.  It has been since the May 2010 match against Turkey in Philadelphia that the US has won on home soil.  The matches at home the US has played since then?  Brazil, Poland, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, and Paraguay.  Some shocking statistics from MLS Analyst Matthew Doyle:

"Since the start of 2010, the US have played 17 times and are 5-6-6. They have scored 21 goals and conceded 24. In 12 of those 17 games – including all three this calendar year – the US have conceded the first goal.

Of the five times the US have scored first, two were 1-0 wins where the goal came in the dying minutes of the second half: the first over Algeria in the World Cup, the second over South Africa last November in a friendly.

In each of the three other games in which the US took the lead first, they gave it up at least once:

1. Against the Czech Republic in a WC warm-up, it took 27 minutes. The US lost 4-2.
2. Against Australia in another warm-up, it took 15 minutes. The US then reclaimed the lead after another 12 and held it for the last hour en route to a 3-1 win.
3. Against Poland in a post-WC friendly, the US went in front twice. The first Polish equalizer took 15 minutes, the second 21. That game finished 2-2.

That hour – technically 59 minutes – of playing in front against the Aussies is the longest the US have held the lead in any game since July 4, 2009, against Grenada. Those two games also represent the only times in the last 44 matches the US have scored inside the first 10 minutes.

Of the 1,560 minutes the US have played since January of 2010, they’ve held the lead for a grand total of 159 minutes. They’ve trailed for 558.

Take out the Australia game and the US have led for only 85 minutes of the 1,470 for which they’ve turned out. For comparison’s sake, Mexico led for 83 of the 90 minutes against Paraguay last Saturday."

Those are some telling numbers.  Bob Bradley and his staff should be very, very concerned.  While individually, some players played quite well against Paraguay, the full US team just isn't meshed like it should be with only a game to play until the most important tournament the US will play in for at least the next two years.  More needs to be done.  Now we all see just how much the loss of the Egypt friendly really hurt the preparations.

Most of you have seen the match and or highlights so I won't describe that much to you on that front. 

I can say that the crowd at LP Field was outstanding and the weather was phenomenal for soccer.  Well done to all who turned out, setting a new Tennessee record for soccer match attendance. 

I'll run down the player ratings:

Marcus Hahnemann (6)- Didn't have much to do but made a couple long range saves and probably could've been more aggressive in coming off his line on the goal scored.  Certainly made no glaring errors.

Timothy Chandler (8.5)- What a start this young man has had to his international career.  Was a terrific threat on the flank and showed multitudes of pace.  Warrants more callup's AND starts.

Jay DeMerit (6)- He gets a six for having the heart of a lion.

Tim Ream (6.5)- Well, it was a decent outing for Ream, and while most will praise him for his composure and distribution, I'll remain cautious about all that.  Paraguay was baiting him into playing some of those balls straight up the middle.

Jonathan Bornstein (3)- "Don't mistake activity for achievement" - John Wooden.  That is all.

Clint Dempsey (7)- Clint was in beast mode for this one, and his "let's just see what happens" blast from some 35+ yards showed it.  Probably should've scored from Lichaj's cross in the second half, but overall, a solid night from the Texan.

Michael Bradley (6.5)- Much better against Paraguay than against Argentina and his cannon from 25 yards was worthy of a goal. 

Maurice Edu (5.5)- Not his best night in a USA kit.  Seemed to be a step behind all evening and was sacrificed at halftime. 

Landon Donovan (6)- Another mehhh performance from Donovan.  His set pieces were off the mark and was continually fouled on the counterattacks.  

Jozy Altidore (5)- He's just lost it a bit.  Regular playing time in Turkey will help him regain his form and confidence. 

Juan Agudelo (6)- Showed flashes of potential once again, however, its easy to see how ineffective he can be when an opponent is keen to his abilities. 

SUBS

Carlos Bocanegra (6.5)- Played well once he entered for DeMerit, no glaring mistakes.

Jermaine Jones (6.5)- Much better in relief of Edu and nearly equalized in the dying seconds.

David Yelldell (6)- Didn't have a single save to make from what I recall, decent enough for a first cap.

Eric Lichaj (6.5)-  An injection of pace that nearly resulted in a goal, Lichaj and Chandler seemed to be very fluid on the right.

Sacha Kljestan (6.5)- A solid 15 minute outing for the Belgian man, be interested to see if he makes the Spain squad. 

Postponed Paraguay Thoughts, USA Tactics During the Drought, and USA 23 for the 2011 Gold Cup

Dearest all NP faithful,

My sincerest apologies for the lack of coverage.  Taking 18 hours of classes plus starting a 40-hour/week job really runs down time to actually sit and analyze soccer all day (unfortunately).  But fear not, for as the title says, it is all coming, perhaps a post tonight and tomorrow on my day off (kinda) I'll get us all caught up on the comings and goings of the USMNT and the U-20 kids, who are currently runnin' game down in Guatemala for the U-20 CONCACAF Championships. 

For a sneak peak of the 23 for the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup, here is this:

USA vs Paraguay: An Exceptional Examination

NP attended the game last night and my personal thoughts will come later this evening, but until then here is a great look in to the match from Shin Guardian contributor Jay Bell. 

USA 1, Argentina 1: The Aftermath

In the midst of eighteen hours of classes, a Kentucky run to the final four, and starting a new job, I somehow managed to find time to finally rewatch and break down the USA-Argentina battle from last night.

First off, let me just say the fighting spirit and the resilience shown by the United States is a thing of legends.  Never before have I see a side so capable of shouldered such tremendous pressure over the course of 90 minutes.  There is a heart about this side which makes me proud to call myself an American.  There is a fight worthy of recognition from anyone who calls himself a patriot. 

Off my soapbox and on to the action. 

From the first minute, Argentina made it known they had come to play, and to play with no mercy.  Argentina's maestro Lionel Messi was a constant nuisance to Tim Howard, as the South American giants pressed the US back-four for basically the entire match.  The US managed 42 minutes of bending until Esteban Cambiasso cleaned up from a brilliant piece of play from Messi, who nutmegged a hapless Carlos Bocanegra and found Angel Di Maria in the box who shot low, Tim Howard saved initially but the ball fell straight to Cambiasso who blasted over a grounded Howard. 

Second half adjustments were needed.  Badly.  The three man midfield employed by Bob Bradley to start the match simply wasn't working.  Jermaine Jones, Michael Bradley, and Maurice Edu, in initial design, was supposed to help containing the exploits of the attacking Argentine diamond of Messi, Di Maria, Ever Banega, and Ezequiel Lavezzi.  It didn't.  And perhaps this was the plan of Senor Bob the whole time.  Trusting the first 45 to tested, experienced veterans, and then flipping his ace in hole to start the second half.  Bradley's ace in the hole was youthful exuberance and pace.

The introduction of Juan Agudelo and Timothy Chandler changed the game for the United States.  The addition of pace into the backline helped shield an under siege Tim Howard in the second half, and Chandler's marauding runs forward created a few good chances for the US.  An instant improvement against an overmatched Jonathan Spector. 

Jermaine Jones was sacrificed following a disappointing first 45 in favor of 18 year old Juan Agudelo, who's pace opened up the pitch for guys like Jozy Altidore, Clint Dempsey, and Landon Donovan to exploit.  Though it was an Altidore drawn foul which allowed the United States the opportunity to draw level.  Donovan picked out Carlos Bocanegra at the far post, who sent a stinging header towards goal.  Argentine keeper Mariano Andujar did well to stop the shot, but could not control it.  An on rushing Agudelo tapped home from a foot away for his second international goal in three matches.

The Yank's goal shellshocked Argentina for all of a minute, when Howard was forced into a quick save following the restart.  The rest of the half was filled up with US stonewalling, Javier Mascherano flailing, and finally after 92 minutes, the referee blew for full time and the US had earned a hard fought draw with one of the worlds best.

Player Ratings:
Tim Howard (8): Absolutely mythical performance from Howard.  Making save, after save, after save.  Could do nothing on the goal allowed.

Jonathan Spector (4.5)- Was easy to see who Argentina were planning on attacking on the night.  Yep, the West Ham hero this season was thrown into the oven by Bob Bradley.  Played good enough on the night to keep earning call ups, but his strength is against slower wide midfielders, not speedy wingers. 

Jay DeMerit (6)- Well, he certainly showed a bit of rust considering this was his second full match since the Ghana match.  Also nipped in with his usual hard tackles and timely marking of the weaving Argentine runs. 

Oguchi Onyewu (5.5)- Probably also not best served playing against slithering snakes like Messi and Lavezzi, but made no glaring errors, save in the early first half when he lost his footing, on what was honestly a crappy surface.  Really needs to work on his distribution out of the back.

Carlos Bocanegra (5.5)- Yep, he turns 32 in a couple months, and he showed it.  Again, not exactly the best player to go up against Argentina, but right now he is simply all we have. 

Jermaine Jones (5)- Poor night from the Blackburn man, always seemed a few seconds behind.  Which happens to a lot of players against Argentina.  Nothing to worry about I'm sure and he'll be able to bounce back against Paraguay in a couple days.

Michael Bradley (6)- Well, it was a mehh performance from Junior on the day.  Showed the rust from not getting much time at Aston Villa, but also showed some glimpses of World Cup's past with his distribution and keen tackling. 

Maurice Edu (5.5)- Forced to play out of position in the first half as the advanced central midfielder, Edu quietly enjoyed a good performance in the second half, and was a foot from equalizing early in the period. 

Clint Dempsey (6.5)- Dempsey was a workhorse on the night.  Managed a couple shots on goal, and led a couple breaks for the US in the second half. 

Landon Donovan (6)- Landon had one of those nights where he fades in and out of the match but usually ends up with an assist or a goal.  His brilliant service led to Agudelo's equalizer. 

Jozy Altidore (5.5)- Tough night for Jozy.  Playing on an island up top is a job for Brian Ching, not Jozy, who plays best with someone to play off of.  The second half was much more productive.

SUBS:
Timothy Chandler (6.5)- How's about a two point upgrade over the man you replaced?  Chandler showed a good deal of pace and a natural crossing ability.  He's a Steve Cherundolo in his hayday.  Well played by the youngster.  Hopefully Bob rewards him with a start on his birthday.

Juan Agudelo (7.5)- Let me just say this.  It's fantastic that Agudelo is a young, energetic, and highly talented kid.  The goal was mehhhhh. Right place, right time? Yes.  But it took little soccer skill to do what he did.  All the credit in the world goes to him for being able to absorb a bit of pressure and to pass out of it.  I'm excited for the kid, don't get me wrong, but I will check that with cautious optimism moving forward.  I've seen too many young forwards like Agudelo start their careers on fire, only to burn out in European proving grounds.


Last but not least I'll post the highlights from US Soccer:

On Tap: USA vs. Argentina

Well, it has been since October 2010 since anything resembling the "A" team has been amassed for a friendly.  Those two friendlies, against Poland and Colombia, yielded decent results (both draws) for the U.S. and while the players were familiar, the formations used were a mix of quasi-successful (4-2-3-1 vs. Poland) and downright dreadful (4-3-3 vs. Colombia). 

This time around, there must be less experimentation, and more evaluation.  With an eye to the CONCACAF Gold Cup in June, and with two for sure matches (maybe a third) to prepare, these are critical to finding a working solution to reclaim the Gold Cup crown.  This goes back to losing that Egypt friendly last month, crucial lost time there for Bob Bradley and his staff to make assessments ahead of naming the 23 man roster. 

Ticket sales for the Argentina game are climbing close to 70,000, and a national audience will be watching on TV.  Bob Bradley will need to get this one right. 

Just for the sake of comparison, and a bit of fun, let's examine the US squad the last time these two teams met, in New Jersey, in 2008.  Here was the US starting 11:

-------------------------Howard

Cherundolo-----Onyewu-----Bocanegra-----Pearce

-------------------Bradley-----Mastroeni

Dempsey--------------Donovan--------------Beasley

-------------------------Johnson

In 2008, that was our strongest lineup.  Really.

My oh my how things have changed for 2011.  The U.S. is deeper, more talented, and more experienced than that rainy night some three years ago. 

Alright, first lets run down NP's "Philosophy of Formation".  This is a new term here at NP, and basically, it is what it sounds like; what will the US formation be that is best suited to both attack and defend Argentina.

Philosophy of Formation
The withdrawal of Stuart Holden because of a vicious challenge from his match this past weekend ruled out a well earned place in the starting 11 of the US Men's national team.  Bob Bradley must now figure out how to remedy this problem.  Remember back to the World Cup this past summer, where did all of the goals come from??  Through the center of the pitch.  Patching up that hole would've (I'd like to have thought) been a central triumvirate of Stuart Holden, Jermaine Jones, and Maurice Edu.  Holden is more attacking oriented than that of the latter two, and would aid the US in quick transition from defense to counter-attack. 

Well, just crumple up that page and toss it, thank you Jonny Evans, you dick.  Now, for the U.S. to make the most of the situation, Holden's injury opens up a spot for an additional forward perhaps??  I've been mulling this for the last few days and over time it has made more sense.  A 4-4-2 hybrid, or the "Bob Bradley Special" as it had become known during the days of the Davies-Altidore combination up top. 

Jermaine Jones and Maurice Edu are still the starters for me.  Michael Bradley hasn't kept the right to remain as a penciled in starter for the US, since his move to the EPL, Junior has found playing time hard to come by, and as such, can afford to sit for a couple matches.  No harm, no foul right?

Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan pinch in from the touchline, acting more as central attacking midfielders than true wide midfielders.  The interchangeability among themselves and the strikers is crucial to achieving any success against Argentina.

Speaking of the strikers, Edson Buddle and Jozy Altidore partnership up top, as it should have been during the World Cup (facepalm), but I digress.  Jozy is playing as a wide-ish winger/withdrawn striker with Bursaspor in Turkey, where he has enjoyed a fair bit of success, behind a true grinding striker.  Edson Buddle is exactly that kind of player.  A rich man's Brian Ching/Conor Casey (with a better right foot). 

Looking at the backline......where to start.  There are a myriad of options that Bob Bradley could go with here.  He could go for straight experience in Spector-Onyewu-Bocanegra-Bornstein.  Or he could go big in the back with Spector-DeMerit-Onyewu-Bocanegra, or a bit crazy here, Chandler-Onyewu-Bocanegra-Bornstein, etc....the lists go on and on.  For the best results, use daily Onyewu and DeMerit.  This partnership in the 2009 Confederations Cup was one of the best in the tournament.  For outside backs, and here is a bit of a dice-roll, new-to-the-block Timothy Chandler, and Captain America Carlos Bocanegra.  Why Chandler?  Why not?  Bob had no issue starting Omar Gonzalez against Brazil or Tim Ream against South Africa and Chile.  Doubtful that an Eric Lichaj sneaks in here, since he wasn't apart of the original camp roster to begin with. 

Tim Howard in goal, the man was christ between the pipes last time vs. Argentina, we will look for more of the same.

Starting 11
----------------------Howard

Chandler-----DeMerit-----Onyewu-----Bocanegra

----------------Jones----------Edu

-----Dempsey-----------------------Donovan

-----------------Altidore
-----------------------------Buddle


Opponent Breakdown

It's Argentina, defend in numbers, gang-tackle, counter-attack, repeat.  That is the name of the game.  See the Argentina-Germany match from the World Cup if you don't believe me. 

Possible starting 11 for Argentina

----------------------Romero

Zanetti-----Otamendi-----Burdisso-------Rojo

-----------Cambiasso------Mascherano

---------------------Pastore

Messi------------------------------------Di Maria
---------------------Lavezzi

There you all have it.  Now lets get psyched to cheer on the Red, White, and Blue!!

MLS First Kick 2011: Prediction Time

Little late on this one, but here are NP's season predictions for the 2011 Major League Soccer season.

MLS Cup: Real Salt Lake
Jason Kreis is a rising star in the coaching world, and has his club on the brink of a birth in the CONCACAF Champions League final.  RSL are my pick to win it all back from their Rocky Mountain neighbors.  Strong in defense, fluid in midfield, and deadly in attack.

Supporters Shield: New York Red Bulls
Hans Backe has stated, rather controversially, that he is aiming on winning the MLS Supporters Shield, rather than the MLS Cup.  The Henry-Agudelo attack pairing will prove deadly, and they'll run away from the Eastern Conference.

U.S. Open Cup: DC United
Could there be a better story out there this season than the return of Charlie Davies to action?  I can't think of any.  DC United are much improved from the horrors of last season, and they'll enjoy a rapid rise back to prominence.

Most Valuable Player: Javier Morales
Javier Morales is the admiral that leads RSL on the pitch, with timely goals and slicing assists, he'll lead RSL to the title.

Golden Boot: Alvaro Saborio
Sweep for RSL? Why not.  Saborio is one of the most elite forwards in MLS, with Javier Morales to feed him.

Comeback Player: Charlie Davies
Doesn't need explaining.

Golden Glove: Kevin Hartmann
Should've won it last season, and will need to stand on his head to shore up a revamped FC Dallas squad.  Fortunately for FCD, he can do just that.

Rookie of the Year: Perry Kitchen
DC United got a future US National Team-er in this kid, to play along side one just isn't fair.

Newcomer of the Year: Jay DeMerit
In what could be a longgg year for the Canadian newcomers, Jay DeMerit will prove a valuable cog in defense. 

Yanks dropping like flies...

Stuart Holden and Carlos Bocanegra were both removed from their respective games due to injuries.  They likely are out of contention for the upcoming friendlies.  &$%#!!!!!!

UPDATE:Zak Whitbread, Steve Cherundolo, and Stuart Holden have all withdrawn from the roster due to injuries picked up in this past weekend's action.  Really disappointing for all of them, but especially Holden, who is easily the most improved yank abroad, and Whitbread, who'd have likely have picked up his first cap.  Carlos Bocanegra's injury has not been mentioned in the USSF press release, so I'm going to assume that he'll be fit for camp. 

Eric Lichaj has been called into camp as the sole replacement.

USA vs. Spain in the works, and other scheduling rumors...

A USA vs. Spain match is reportedly being negotiated, for June 4th in Boston, Massachusetts.  This would be an epic match to finalize the preparations for the CONCACAF Gold Cup.  Well to whoever is doing the scheduling at the USSF. 

Also some rumors a couple weeks ago about a USA-Mexico game set for August.  Keep posted for more.

Paraguay head coach Gerardo Martino named his squad that will face the United States on March 29 in Nashville.  Here it is:

GOALKEEPERS (2): Justo Villar (Valladolid), Diego Barreto (Guarini)

DEFENDERS (7): Antolín Alcaraz (Wigan Athletic), Marcos Cáceres, Paulo Da Silva (Real Zaragoza), Víctor Hugo Mareco (Brescia), Miguel Samudio (Libertad), Aureliano Torres (San Lorenzo), Darío Verón (UNAM Pumas)

MIDFIELDERS (9): Edgar Barreto (Atalanta), Marcelo Estigarribia (Newell's Old Boys), Osvaldo Martínez (Monterrey), Osmar Molinas (Olimpia), Néstor Ortigoza (Argentinos Juniors), Hernán Pérez (Villarreal), Cristian Riveros (Sunderland), Marcos Riveros (Nacional), Enrique Vera (LDU Quito)

FORWARDS (3): Lucas Barrios (Borussia Dortmund), Oscar Cardozo (Benfica), Edgar Benítez (Pachuca)

What does everyone think?  The US stands a chance of erasing the result from the last time these teams met, a 3-1 win for Paraguay at the 2007 Copa America. 

Argentina Squad

Argentina head coach Sergio Batista named a strong roster for the match on March 26 vs. the USA.  Here it is:

GOALKEEPERS (3): Mariano Andujar (Catania), Adrian Gabbarini (Independiente), Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar).

DEFENDERS (8): Nicolas Burdisso (Roma), Federico Fazio (Sevilla), Ezequiel Garay (Real Madrid), Gabriel Milito (Barcelona), Nicolas Otamendi (Porto), Marcos Rojo (Spartak Moscow), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Javier Zanetti (Inter Milan)

MIDFIELDERS (7): Javier Mascherano (Barcelona),  Ever Banega (Valencia), Fernando Belluschi (Porto), Lucas Biglia (Anderlecht), Mario Bolatti (Internacional), Esteban Cambiasso (Inter Milan), Javier Pastore (Palermo)

FORWARDS (6): Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid), Nicolas Gaitan (Benfica),  Eduardo Salvio (Benfica), Ezequiel Lavezzi (Napoli), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Jose Sosa (Napoli)

It's gonna be a dog fight, can Tim Howard be the hero he was last team these teams met? 

Bob Bradley Names Veteran Roster for Friendlies

Here it is in all its glory:

GOALKEEPERS-Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Tim Howard (Everton), David Yelldell (MSV Duisburg)

DEFENDERS-Carlos Bocanegra (Saint-Etienne), Jonathan Bornstein (UANL Tigres), Timothy Chandler (FC Nürnberg), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Jay DeMerit (Vancouver Whitecaps), Oguchi Onyewu (FC Twente), Tim Ream (New York Red Bulls), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United), Zak Whitbread (Norwich City)

MIDFIELDERS-Michael Bradley (Aston Villa), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Mikkel Diskeruud (Stabaek), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Benny Feilhaber (AGF Aarhus), Stuart Holden (Bolton Wanderers), Jermaine Jones (Blackburn Rovers), Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht)

FORWARDS-Juan Agudelo (New York Red Bulls), Jozy Altidore (Bursaspor), Edson Buddle (FC Ingolstadt)

First of all, our predictions were a bit off.  The inclusions of DeMerit, Agudelo, Ream, Hahnemann, Feilhaber, Diskerud, and Chandler are all surprising.  For the fact that the former four are all preparing for a lengthy MLS regular season, and the later for haven't played a match in some time, or, as in the case of Chandler, was thought to be out due to passport issues.

All things considered, this is an excellent roster, and marks the first time since the Ghana game that a full strength roster has been called up.  

Some telling absences?  How about Brad Guzan, Eric Lichaj, and Alejandro Bedoya?  Not necessarily snubs, but obviously they are first team material.  Clarence Goodson recently broke his toe and will miss a few weeks so that explains his exclusion.  Really thought Michael Parkhurst would get a call here, say, in the place of Ream.  Also thought we'd see Eddie Johnson over Juan Agudelo, simply because A) Agudelo is just getting over a slight knock and B) the CONCACAF U-20 Championships are that same week. 

Knee jerk starting 11 for Argentina?  How about this:

-------------------------Howard

Cherundolo-----Onyewu-----Bocanegra-----Bornstein

-------------------Bradley-------Jones

-------------------------Holden 

Dempsey--------------------------------------Donovan

-------------------------Altidore

US Roster, Reconfigured

Little over two weeks ago, I gave you a 20-man roster for the upcoming friendlies.  Since then, a lot has changed, with injuries and club duties taking some of the guys out of the picture temporarily.  I'm going to revise and give you a 23 man roster of roster worthy yanks.

GK: Tim Howard, Brad Guzan, David Yelldell (confirmed)

DF: Steve Cherundolo, Eric Lichaj, Oguchi Onyewu, Michael Parkhurst, Zak Whitbred, Gale Agbossoumonde, Carlos Bocanegra, Jonathan Bornstein

MD: Landon Donovan, Alejandro Bedoya, Michael Bradley, Jermaine Jones, Stuart Holden, Maurice Edu, Jonathan Spector, Sacha Kljestan

FW: Clint Dempsey, Jozy Altidore, Edson Buddle, Eddie Johnson

For Arsenal, It's One Step at a Time

Arsenal are so close to breaking through to that elite of elite tier that it hurts.  Two weeks ago, a famous 2-1 victory over Barcalona in the Champions League Round of 16 first leg at the Emirates had the club and its worldwide fan base in a frenzy.  But back down to earth we crashed back down after an away draw in the FA Cup against lower league side Leyton Orient, after a late, soft goal was conceded by Manuel Almunia, and then when an opportunity to grab the clubs first trophy in some five seasons came around, a defensive blunder between first year gunner Laurent Koscielny and 19 year old keeper Wojciech Szczesny allowed Birmingham City to grab a late winner in the Carling Cup Final. 

As it would turn out, the fact that Leyton Orient forced a replay at the Emirates may have in fact aided in the recovery.  A 5-0 trouncing at the Emirates seemingly helped steady the ship and took a bit of the sting out of the Carling Cup final loss.

Three days later, following Chelsea's defeat of league leaders Manchester United gave the Gunners a chance to close within 1 point of the Red Devils.  A home match against Sunderland seemed a perfect opportunity to put real pressure on United.  But a 0-0 draw meant that the Gunners would only close within 3 points.

Fast forward to today.

Tomorrow, Arsenal will take on Barcelona at the Camp Nou in the Champions League Round of 16 second leg.  A win or draw will see Arsenal through to the quarterfinals and cement them as odds on favorites to make the finals.  Should Arsenal manage a result vs Barcelona, the highs of that competition will have to be held in check, as four days after Barca match, Arsenal go to Old Trafford for a FA Cup quarterfinal match-up against Manchester United. 

Talk about a statement week, potentially beating arguably the best team in the world in Barcelona, and then potentially beating EPL league leaders Manchester United, both away from the relative safety of the Emirates.

A riding high Gunner squad then faces a trap game in the Premiership, as seven days after that FA Cup match at Man U, Arsenal face a West Bromwich Albion squad which has already beaten the Gunners in a 3-2 travesty at home.  With a game now in hand on Manchester United, following United's 3-1 loss against a resurgent Liverpool squad yesterday, the Gunners, within the next eight days can:  toss Barca out of the Champions League and march into the quarterfinals, oust Manchester United from the FA Cup and move on to the semi-finals, and defeat WBA to draw even with Manchester United in the EPL.

Eight days will make or break Arsenal, how Arsene Wenger's squad responds to the pressure will likely mean the difference between another trophy-less season and a season of potential glory.