***Official Soccer Discussion Thread*** (3 Viewers)

[Moe.]

holden also drilled one off the bar from way downtown.

Should they replay that a few more times so the announcers can really be sure it was the right call?

lol, it wasnt even that close. i guess fsc felt like they needed to use their c team announcers to keep with the theme. i have the volume down.

 

[Moe.]

does quaranta have any kind of a chance of making the team next summer? obviously the competition hasn't been elite but he appears to have more talent than a lot of the a teamers, and he crosses the ball really well. id rather see him on the team than guys like mastroeni.

 

[Christo]

I don't know but that right back should be sent home at the half.

 

[Christo]

 

[Moe.]

what happened?

 

[Christo]

The back 5 hit the snooze button the first 3 mins of the second half.

 

[The Z Machine]

does quaranta have any kind of a chance of making the team next summer? obviously the competition hasn't been elite but he appears to have more talent than a lot of the a teamers, and he crosses the ball really well. id rather see him on the team than guys like mastroeni.

He might have more talent than Pablo right now, but as I've said before, Pablo brings a lot of experience to the WC squad. I think he's a good presence in the locker room. Plus, if needed he can go into a game and body up an attacking MF on the other side. Lord knows he like to give some "professional" fouls.

 

[Christo]

 

[The Z Machine]

USA pulls one back from long range to make it 2-2. 90th minute.

Haiti must be crushed here. They were minutes away from a big big win.

 

[The Z Machine]

Haiti was seeing some mad pressure at the end there. Nonetheless, that USA squad was nothing like the one put out against Spain in the Confed.

 

[walnutz]

Haiti was seeing some mad pressure at the end there. Nonetheless, that USA squad was nothing like the one put out against Spain in the Confed.

This squad was not much like the ones we put on the field in the first 2 games of the Gold Cup either. Sloppy soccer. Beckerman and Davies settled it down some when they were subbed. Kenny Cooper, in my opinion, should be done with the National Team. Sorry Jay Heaps you don't make it either. Holden goal was quality at the end there to salvage the draw. I know we will not see many of these guys again from tonight but man this was just poor. Service was way off. Many, many times they could not get it over the first defender. I am going to go and try to forget this match now.

 

[bentley]

Haiti was seeing some mad pressure at the end there. Nonetheless, that USA squad was nothing like the one put out against Spain in the Confed.

This squad was not much like the ones we put on the field in the first 2 games of the Gold Cup either. Sloppy soccer. Beckerman and Davies settled it down some when they were subbed. Connor Casey, in my opinion, should be done with the National Team. Sorry Jay Heaps you don't make it either. Holden goal was quality at the end there to salvage the draw. I know we will not see many of these guys again from tonight but man this was just poor. Service was way off. Many, many times they could not get it over the first defender. I am going to go and try to forget this match now.

Colin Clark? I'm pretty sure Connor Casey didn't play (though I agree that he sucks).

 

[Christo]

For a group of guys who'd never played together before they weren't that bad in the first half. They held their shape in MF and passed pretty crisply.

I was impressed with Holden.

The two CBs were solid but they weren't really attacked by Haiti.

The two FBs were horrible. And the GK didn't control his area. Both goals were unforgiveable.

 

[eagles2007]

haiti looks like an awful place to live just from looking at a map. 9,000,000 into a place that looks like the size of new jersey if even that big.

as for the game, it was hard to expect much. i mean, we went with our sub's subs (and about the 6th best goalie). we looked good in the first half, terrible for five minutes and good again late.

haiti looked terrible across the back, though. good skill up front and good speed. would have been tough to explain to non-fans how we lost to to haiti and beat spain, though.

 

[walnutz]

Haiti was seeing some mad pressure at the end there. Nonetheless, that USA squad was nothing like the one put out against Spain in the Confed.

This squad was not much like the ones we put on the field in the first 2 games of the Gold Cup either. Sloppy soccer. Beckerman and Davies settled it down some when they were subbed. Kenny Cooper, in my opinion, should be done with the National Team. Sorry Jay Heaps you don't make it either. Holden goal was quality at the end there to salvage the draw. I know we will not see many of these guys again from tonight but man this was just poor. Service was way off. Many, many times they could not get it over the first defender. I am going to go and try to forget this match now.

Colin Clark? I'm pretty sure Connor Casey didn't play (though I agree that he sucks).

Jesus Bentley I have lost my mind. I meant Kenny Cooper. Thanks for the correction.

 

[R. Jay Soward]

#### I thought the game was tonight.

 

[Norman Paperman]

haiti looks like an awful place to live just from looking at a map. 9,000,000 into a place that looks like the size of new jersey if even that big.

Glad I don't live in New JerseyHaiti Population - 9,035,536Square Miles - 10,714843 people/square mileNew Jersey Population - 8,682,661Square miles - 8,722995 people/square mileLots of other reasons to not want to live in Haiti though.

 

[The Z Machine]

haiti looks like an awful place to live just from looking at a map. 9,000,000 into a place that looks like the size of new jersey if even that big.

Glad I don't live in New JerseyHaiti Population - 9,035,536Square Miles - 10,714843 people/square mileNew Jersey Population - 8,682,661Square miles - 8,722995 people/square mileLots of other reasons to not want to live in Haiti though.

Yeah, like GDP per capita of sub-saharan Africa and the highest HIV rates in the Americas.

 

[R. Jay Soward]

Lots of Haiti-bashing in here. Let's be cooler than that.

- R

 

[Moe.]

Population density is definitely not the reason to not want to live in Haiti. I'm sure it's on par with a lot of other island nations in the Caribbean, surely Puerto Rico is more densely populated. Anyone watch the Mexicans play tonight?

 

[Moe.]

R. Jay Soward = Steve Tasker, yes?

 

[prefontaine]

For those of you like me that haven't ever seeing Jermaine Jones play, here is a "highlight" clip of him on youtube.

I'd say lots to get excited about as he appears to have ridiculous speed and good ball skills. His range and energy would be an immediate asset and make our midfield seem more fluid. Also he shows an imagination in his runs that few on our current squad possess. Unfortunately, he also shows a temper that it seems like several already do (shout out to Bradley and Pablo). Anyone that speaks German, I'd be curious what he says in the interview about the cards (I assume that is what it is about). Anyway, it's a highlight clip so I'll temper my enthusiasm til I see him in the red, white and blue but my first impression is pretty positive.

 

[TwinTurbo]

For those of you like me that haven't ever seeing Jermaine Jones play, here is a "highlight" clip of him on youtube.

I'd say lots to get excited about as he appears to have ridiculous speed and good ball skills. His range and energy would be an immediate asset and make our midfield seem more fluid. Also he shows an imagination in his runs that few on our current squad possess. Unfortunately, he also shows a temper that it seems like several already do (shout out to Bradley and Pablo). Anyone that speaks German, I'd be curious what he says in the interview about the cards (I assume that is what it is about). Anyway, it's a highlight clip so I'll temper my enthusiasm til I see him in the red, white and blue but my first impression is pretty positive.

Looks like a player I would love for the US to be able to take into Azteca.

 

[Desert_Power]

In case anyone was curious, here is a video from a hat trick Ronaldo(O Fenômeno) scored recently. He certainly looks to be back in form a bit with Corinthians. Its good to see a legend of the game that still has the ability to play despite the few bad years he had.

http://sporza.be/cm/sporza/voetbal/buitenl...onaldo_hattrick

 

[Sinn Fein]

For those of you like me that haven't ever seeing Jermaine Jones play, here is a "highlight" clip of him on youtube.

I'd say lots to get excited about as he appears to have ridiculous speed and good ball skills. His range and energy would be an immediate asset and make our midfield seem more fluid. Also he shows an imagination in his runs that few on our current squad possess. Unfortunately, he also shows a temper that it seems like several already do (shout out to Bradley and Pablo). Anyone that speaks German, I'd be curious what he says in the interview about the cards (I assume that is what it is about). Anyway, it's a highlight clip so I'll temper my enthusiasm til I see him in the red, white and blue but my first impression is pretty positive.

Looks like a player I would love for the US to be able to take into Azteca.

I am torn - he brings an aggressiveness and confidence on both the offensive and defensive side - which the US sorely needs. But, it looks like the thing that is keeping him off the German national team is his volatility - which could kill a team in WC play - an ill-timed yellow or red could really disrupt team's plans. I don't think he would fit in well with the current US squad - which is as much an indictment at how soft I think our guys are, as much as it is Jones' own volatility.I'd like to see us get tougher on the world stage - not sure we have the personnel or the coaching staff to do that.

 

[Kendall]

For those of you like me that haven't ever seeing Jermaine Jones play, here is a "highlight" clip of him on youtube.

I'd say lots to get excited about as he appears to have ridiculous speed and good ball skills. His range and energy would be an immediate asset and make our midfield seem more fluid. Also he shows an imagination in his runs that few on our current squad possess. Unfortunately, he also shows a temper that it seems like several already do (shout out to Bradley and Pablo). Anyone that speaks German, I'd be curious what he says in the interview about the cards (I assume that is what it is about). Anyway, it's a highlight clip so I'll temper my enthusiasm til I see him in the red, white and blue but my first impression is pretty positive.

Looks like a player I would love for the US to be able to take into Azteca.

I am torn - he brings an aggressiveness and confidence on both the offensive and defensive side - which the US sorely needs. But, it looks like the thing that is keeping him off the German national team is his volatility - which could kill a team in WC play - an ill-timed yellow or red could really disrupt team's plans. I don't think he would fit in well with the current US squad - which is as much an indictment at how soft I think our guys are, as much as it is Jones' own volatility.I'd like to see us get tougher on the world stage - not sure we have the personnel or the coaching staff to do that.

While watching the first five minutes of the posted video I couldn't decide if the person who made the video was trying to make Jones look good or bad.

 

[Sinn Fein]

For those of you like me that haven't ever seeing Jermaine Jones play, here is a "highlight" clip of him on youtube.

I'd say lots to get excited about as he appears to have ridiculous speed and good ball skills. His range and energy would be an immediate asset and make our midfield seem more fluid. Also he shows an imagination in his runs that few on our current squad possess. Unfortunately, he also shows a temper that it seems like several already do (shout out to Bradley and Pablo). Anyone that speaks German, I'd be curious what he says in the interview about the cards (I assume that is what it is about). Anyway, it's a highlight clip so I'll temper my enthusiasm til I see him in the red, white and blue but my first impression is pretty positive.

Looks like a player I would love for the US to be able to take into Azteca.

I am torn - he brings an aggressiveness and confidence on both the offensive and defensive side - which the US sorely needs. But, it looks like the thing that is keeping him off the German national team is his volatility - which could kill a team in WC play - an ill-timed yellow or red could really disrupt team's plans. I don't think he would fit in well with the current US squad - which is as much an indictment at how soft I think our guys are, as much as it is Jones' own volatility.I'd like to see us get tougher on the world stage - not sure we have the personnel or the coaching staff to do that.

While watching the first five minutes of the posted video I couldn't decide if the person who made the video was trying to make Jones look good or bad.

I thought the same thing - but I like to see players take those long-distance shots with authority - he missed a bunch, but just taking those shots opens up passing lanes since the defense, and goalie, has to respect that option. We have very few players who are willing to take those shots. I thought Holden's goal, even though it was a distance shot by necessity due to the time, was one of the best goals I have seen from our team in a while.

I also like the physical play within reason - sends a message - and I thought the sequence where he ended up with Red was actually a good tackle - I thought he got his hips in front and played the ball. But, the volatility in going after the ref in that situation had no outcome other than red.

He also has a better understanding of the international game, which includes some of the fake grimacing after a touch foul (of course he ended up with a yellow by the same tactics when he stiff-armed the guy on the way to his break away, and the other guy grabbed his face - looked like he hit the shoulder, or maybe neck). You may not like the style, but you better be able to play it in the international game.

 

[Kendall]

For those of you like me that haven't ever seeing Jermaine Jones play, here is a "highlight" clip of him on youtube.

I'd say lots to get excited about as he appears to have ridiculous speed and good ball skills. His range and energy would be an immediate asset and make our midfield seem more fluid. Also he shows an imagination in his runs that few on our current squad possess. Unfortunately, he also shows a temper that it seems like several already do (shout out to Bradley and Pablo). Anyone that speaks German, I'd be curious what he says in the interview about the cards (I assume that is what it is about). Anyway, it's a highlight clip so I'll temper my enthusiasm til I see him in the red, white and blue but my first impression is pretty positive.

Looks like a player I would love for the US to be able to take into Azteca.

I am torn - he brings an aggressiveness and confidence on both the offensive and defensive side - which the US sorely needs. But, it looks like the thing that is keeping him off the German national team is his volatility - which could kill a team in WC play - an ill-timed yellow or red could really disrupt team's plans. I don't think he would fit in well with the current US squad - which is as much an indictment at how soft I think our guys are, as much as it is Jones' own volatility.I'd like to see us get tougher on the world stage - not sure we have the personnel or the coaching staff to do that.

While watching the first five minutes of the posted video I couldn't decide if the person who made the video was trying to make Jones look good or bad.

I thought the same thing - but I like to see players take those long-distance shots with authority - he missed a bunch, but just taking those shots opens up passing lanes since the defense, and goalie, has to respect that option. We have very few players who are willing to take those shots. I thought Holden's goal, even though it was a distance shot by necessity due to the time, was one of the best goals I have seen from our team in a while.

I also like the physical play within reason - sends a message - and I thought the sequence where he ended up with Red was actually a good tackle - I thought he got his hips in front and played the ball. But, the volatility in going after the ref in that situation had no outcome other than red.

He also has a better understanding of the international game, which includes some of the fake grimacing after a touch foul (of course he ended up with a yellow by the same tactics when he stiff-armed the guy on the way to his break away, and the other guy grabbed his face - looked like he hit the shoulder, or maybe neck). You may not like the style, but you better be able to play it in the international game.

Don't get me wrong, I liked what I saw from the guy. I just found it unusual that his "highlight" real started with a string of missed shots from 25 yards out.

 

[prefontaine]

Don't get me wrong, I liked what I saw from the guy. I just found it unusual that his "highlight" real started with a string of missed shots from 25 yards out.

LOL. This is why I originally used quotations on "highlight." It shows the good and bad.

 

[prefontaine]

I am torn - he brings an aggressiveness and confidence on both the offensive and defensive side - which the US sorely needs. But, it looks like the thing that is keeping him off the German national team is his volatility - which could kill a team in WC play - an ill-timed yellow or red could really disrupt team's plans. I don't think he would fit in well with the current US squad - which is as much an indictment at how soft I think our guys are, as much as it is Jones' own volatility.I'd like to see us get tougher on the world stage - not sure we have the personnel or the coaching staff to do that.

He is off the German side because they have a ton of talent to choose from in the middle and he and Loew don't get along.As for whether he fits in well with the current squad, I can't tell if you are serious or not.

 

[Sinn Fein]

I am torn - he brings an aggressiveness and confidence on both the offensive and defensive side - which the US sorely needs. But, it looks like the thing that is keeping him off the German national team is his volatility - which could kill a team in WC play - an ill-timed yellow or red could really disrupt team's plans. I don't think he would fit in well with the current US squad - which is as much an indictment at how soft I think our guys are, as much as it is Jones' own volatility.I'd like to see us get tougher on the world stage - not sure we have the personnel or the coaching staff to do that.

He is off the German side because they have a ton of talent to choose from in the middle and he and Loew don't get along.As for whether he fits in well with the current squad, I can't tell if you are serious or not.

Serious - not from a talent standpoint - from a personality standpoint.When the US plays top competition we tend to go into a shell, and play very conservatively and a bit scared. We lose more 50-50 balls than we should. Not always, but often enough, and it is what I expect in South Africa. Our talent is such that we are stuck between two dominant styles of play - we are not physical enough to play a physical game with the top European teams, and we do not have the ball control and foot skills to play a finesse game like many South American teams. That leaves us in a hole, no matter our competition. Very rarely will we ever dictate play in a big international game - even with a two goal lead, we could not force the Brazilians out of their game.So, for me the issue is how will the others re-act to Jones style of play? And how will Jones react, if the rest of the team does not share his passion and aggressiveness? I would have preferred a more international coach - either european or south american - who could have really brought more of either style to our team. As it is, I think we took the safe and easy road - and it will lead to the same result in 2010 - we will almost certainly be in the group of death, and I think we will not make it out. I hope I am wrong. I hope Jones comes in and light a fire under some players and stirs better play, more passion and energy. I hope that we develop a level of confidence where we think we can beat anyone on any given day.When does the rule change go into effect? Would Jones even be eligible against Mexico?

 

[Christo]

Don't get me wrong, I liked what I saw from the guy. I just found it unusual that his "highlight" real started with a string of missed shots from 25 yards out.

LOL. This is why I originally used quotations on "highlight." It shows the good and bad.

I didn't see anything "bad" there.And we need an injection of skill and attitude. The US is not good enough to worry about him upsetting its chemistry.

 

[The Kansas Comet]

In case anyone was curious, here is a video from a hat trick Ronaldo(O Fenômeno) scored recently. He certainly looks to be back in form a bit with Corinthians. Its good to see a legend of the game that still has the ability to play despite the few bad years he had.

http://sporza.be/cm/sporza/voetbal/buitenl...onaldo_hattrick

Good for him. He looks a bit heavy, but he's still so calm in the box. Such a great finisher. I'll never forgive Nunez for not paying him and basically sending him packing from Barcelona. I can't think of another former Barcelona player that ended up at Madrid that I still liked afterward, apart from him. I have a Barcelona jersey signed by him - a reminder of some amazing performances.

 

[The Z Machine]

Finally, Sergio Asenjo got signed by my Atlético. More to report in a bit.

 

[TwinTurbo]

Don't get me wrong, I liked what I saw from the guy. I just found it unusual that his "highlight" real started with a string of missed shots from 25 yards out.

LOL. This is why I originally used quotations on "highlight." It shows the good and bad.

The other thing with the missed shots and even the made shots is that it appears he doesn't have much accuracy. He is just kicking the ball like it stole something from him as hard as possible in the general direction of the goal. But I love the fact that he's shooting. And he makes some amazing runs both with and without the ball in that clip. I would love to have a player like this on the national team. Regarding the volatility, does anyone know how many yellow/red cards he's received? It's obvious he has a temper, but is his booking rate any higher than the average player on the national team?

 

[Steve Tasker]

No discussion on Michael Owen to Manchester United, I see...

I've always liked Owen...one of those guys who reminds me of myself on the field. Good to see him staying in the top flight...he's obviously good enough.

 

[Christo]

No discussion on Michael Owen to Manchester United, I see...I've always liked Owen...one of those guys who reminds me of myself on the field. Good to see him staying in the top flight...he's obviously good enough.

High praise indeed

 

[Texas Football]

No discussion on Michael Owen to Manchester United, I see...I've always liked Owen...one of those guys who reminds me of myself on the field. Good to see him staying in the top flight...he's obviously good enough.

I'm a big Owen fan. He was the only Brit I wanted to do well in the past.I hope he can get one or two injury free seasons in to regain some of the favor he should have from the fans. If he can get 10 goals this year I think it is a good move for ManU, too.I didn't read the articles in detail, but did any of them reveal contact terms. He probably has a very lower base salary, but a good game splayed/goals scored bonus. If he is healthy he can be a goal scoring machine. What does he have total for England 40ish or so?There was no way he was going to Championship...and I am not sad about it.

 

[Steve Tasker]

Finally caught the highlights of the US/Haiti game

at Jay Heaps getting abused on the flank. Oh my God

 

[magichat]

No discussion on Michael Owen to Manchester United, I see...I've always liked Owen...one of those guys who reminds me of myself on the field. Good to see him staying in the top flight...he's obviously good enough.

You're three foot two, used to be fast and 1/2 the Kop is suicidal now because they were either named after you or named their first born son after you?

 

[magichat]

No discussion on Michael Owen to Manchester United, I see...I've always liked Owen...one of those guys who reminds me of myself on the field. Good to see him staying in the top flight...he's obviously good enough.

Seriously though, it's not a bad signing (he cost virtually no money so theres no risk) but:1) He looked finished his whole time at Newcastle. That might be because he was unmotivated in a horrible environment and he can re-energise himself in a good team, but its more likely that he's just finished.2) Can't see him thriving in the system, he needs the ball fed to him on a plate which I suppose he'll get, but last time United played with an out and out striker was Ruud v.Nistelrooy and the team play really suffered with him in there at the end. Ruud basically clogged up the box and was unable to create his own shot (which was Owen's MO at Newcastle). United's forward play is now based on ball speed and 5 - 6 players constantly switching and moving to create space, and really relies on the "strikers" playing somewhat withdrawn and being supported by the midfield and wingers. Owen just isnt skillful enough to play that way.However, it's likely to be Rooney/Berbs as first choice with Macheda/Wellbeck starting a lot, I can see Owen coming off the bench to change the pace when needed.3) It's not really what was envisioned coming off Ronaldo's 80 million, especially when the likes of Aguero and Benzema were touted as replacements but in reality I suppose the 35 million on Berbatov last year was spending in advance. That and the fact he's an irritating little scouse scum means the majority of fans are pretty meh about the whole thing and will take a while to warm to him and the signing. Hope he gets a hat trick at Anfield though.

 

[Moe.]

Anyone think Manchester City will be able to break up the top four next year? If I'm an Arsenal fan I'm extremely nervous, I think you could argue that City now has more talent. Tevez is a really nice signing for them, throw in Barry, Santa Cruz, Ireland, and Robinho and you got yourself a stew going baby.

 

[LHUCKS]

Not sure if these were posted...ESPNs WC roster rankings:

1 Goalkeeper Tim Howard Undisputed No. 1 goalkeeper for the U.S. Flourishing in the Premiership with Everton and firmly established as one of the upper-echelon goalkeepers in the game. Howard proved his world-class ability at the Confederations Cup. 2 Striker Landon Donovan U.S. team's all-time leading goal scorer with 41 goals in 115 appearances. Has been increasingly deployed as a wide midfielder in recent games. His pace and creativity are critical to the U.S. offense. 3 Midfielder Clinton Dempsey English Premiership star with club team Fulham. Dempsey raised his stock with three goals at the Confederations Cup to earn the Bronze Ball award. 4 Defender Oguchi Onyewu Onyewu's stock continues to rise after a series of strong performances in South Africa. Dominant in the air and has cut down on his mistakes. His move to AC Milan and Serie A can only help develop his game and technical ability. 5 Defender Carlos Bocanegra Captain of the U.S. team and undisputed leader. Will likely start at center back or could make the switch to left back if the position continues to be a weak point. 6 Midfielder Michael Bradley Team's midfield engine continues to develop into a strong box-to-box player. Must reduce penchant for picking up silly fouls and needless cards. 7 Forward Josmer Altidore The 19-year-old forward is still learning on the job, but his strength and finishing ability give defenders fits. Seems to be better suited to working in tandem with another forward partner as opposed to operating as the lone striker. 8 Goalkeeper Brad Guzan Aston Villa reserve is locked in as the team's No. 2 goalkeeper. Some concerns exist about Guzan's lack of experience at the topflight level, but coach Bradley knows him well from their time at Chivas USA. 9 Defender Jay DeMerit Has solidified the No. 3 center back spot following a strong performance in the Confederations Cup. Could even stake a claim to start. 10 Defender Jonathan Spector Impressed with his defensive work and ability to deliver crosses in South Africa. In the mix for the No. 1 right back spot. Concerns still exist about his ability to stay healthy though. 11 Striker Brian Ching Houston star is still the best target man option the U.S. has. Work rate and ability to hold up the ball are pluses. Critics question his ability to score goals against top-tier international sides. 12 Striker Charlie Davies Showed off his explosive speed and effectiveness in pairing with Altidore at the Confederations Cup. After flourishing in Sweden the last two years, has made the move to the French Ligue with Sochaux. 13 Midfielder Ricardo Clark Aside from a silly red card against Italy, Clark made a strong case in South Africa to be the team's starting defensive midfielder. Brings lots of range and energy to the midfield, but needs to cut down on reckless mistakes. 14 Midfielder Benny Feilhaber It's been a series of highs-and-lows for Feilhaber since his game-winning goal in the 2007 Gold Cup. However, when healthy, Feilhaber adds an element of creativity, poise and ball control to the U.S. midfield. 15 Midfielder Jermaine Jones The Schalke star recently declared his intention to switch allegiance from Germany to the U.S. Given his European pedigree, the dynamic defensive midfielder is likely to become a key part of the U.S. squad in the near future. 16 Defender Frankie Hejduk An injury derailed Hejduk's grip on the starting right back position, but his intangibles and experience should see him make the World Cup roster. 17 Defender Steve Cherundolo Team's former undisputed No. 1 right back is determined to reclaim his position following injury. Well-rounded fullback who can both attack and defend. 18 Defender Danny Califf Solid backup, provides insurance and depth at center back, though he's slipped in the pecking order following DeMerit's emergence. Could face pressure from the likes of Chad Marshall for the fourth center back spot. 19 Defender Jonathan Bornstein For now, Bornstein would still appear to be the favored specialist left back in Bob Bradley's plans. Solid going forward, but questions remain about his defensive ability. 20 Midfielder Maurice Edu The talented Edu has been temporarily derailed by injury, but his roster spot as one of the team's holding midfielders would still seem assured. Ability to fill in as an emergency center back is an added plus. 21 Goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann The 37-year-old Hahnemann provides depth and veteran experience as the third goalkeeper. Could face a challenge from Troy Perkins to his place in the pecking order. 22 Midfielder DaMarcus Beasley Barely holding on to a roster spot after having suffered a huge drop-off in his play due to injuries and lack of playing time at club level in the past two years. Right now he looks like a shell of the player who shone in the 2002 World Cup. However, he has longtime ties with coach Bradley and his defensive tenacity is still valued. 23 Striker Conor Casey Not to everyone's tastes, but the Colorado forward provides a physical presence up front as a target man and added insurance if Ching is injured. On The Fringe 24 Midfielder Freddy Adu Lacking playing time at club level the last two years and also failed to impress at the Gold Cup, Adu is definitely in danger of not making the World Cup squad. Has the ability to produce the unexpected though at any given moment and that could be enough to convince Bob Bradley to take him to South Africa. 25 Midfielder Sacha Kljestan A favorite of Bradley's. The Chivas USA man appears to have been in a funk ever since a move to Celtic failed to materialize earlier this year. Shows flashes of skill and creativity, but is also prone to turnovers. 26 Defender Heath Pearce At one point, Pearce appeared to be the incumbent at left back. However, a series of poor performances saw him demoted and he's in a fight with Bornstein for a roster spot. 27 Midfielder José Torres Another young talent who appears to be on the cusp of the U.S. squad. Stock looked to be on the rise until a benching at halftime against Costa Rica in the June World Cup qualifier. He hasn't been seen since. 28 Forward Robbie Rogers A dynamic left winger with pace to burn but inconsistent end product and delivery. Rogers has shone so far in the Gold Cup to press his claims for a senior squad berth. 29 Defender Edgar Castillo Another wild card due to FIFA's eligibility rule change. Castillo, who plays for Mexican club team Santos, has expressed interest in playing for the U.S. He could potentially displace the current incumbents at left back. 30 Midfielder Pablo Mastroeni The veteran remains well-regarded by coach Bradley for his experience and intangibles, but faces an uphill struggle to beat out his younger rivals for a spot in South Africa. 31 Midfielder Stuart Holden The young Houston midfielder has raised some eyebrows and entered the mix with his standout play in the Gold Cup. Holden has impressed with his versatility, poise and long-range shooting.

 

[Kendall]

No discussion on Michael Owen to Manchester United, I see...I've always liked Owen...one of those guys who reminds me of myself on the field. Good to see him staying in the top flight...he's obviously good enough.

You're three foot two, used to be fast and 1/2 the Kop is suicidal now because they were either named after you or named their first born son after you?

Yeah... about that.

 

[whitem0nkey]

WOW

 

[brewer]

Anyone think Manchester City will be able to break up the top four next year? If I'm an Arsenal fan I'm extremely nervous, I think you could argue that City now has more talent. Tevez is a really nice signing for them, throw in Barry, Santa Cruz, Ireland, and Robinho and you got yourself a stew going baby.

They are talented, that's for sure. It will be interesting to see if Hughes can get them all on the same page and firing at the same time though. Even the best players in the world though take some time to gel(see Barca 07-08).

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Anyone think Manchester City will be able to break up the top four next year? If I'm an Arsenal fan I'm extremely nervous, I think you could argue that City now has more talent. Tevez is a really nice signing for them, throw in Barry, Santa Cruz, Ireland, and Robinho and you got yourself a stew going baby.

They are talented, that's for sure. It will be interesting to see if Hughes can get them all on the same page and firing at the same time though. Even the best players in the world though take some time to gel(see Barca 07-08).

City also making a serious run at Adebayor (its now being reported as a done deal at 60mil. pounds) and have reportedly made a rediculous offer to woo John Terry away from Chelsea. The Sun reported that City offered JT 250,000 pounds a week, which can't be true. (http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/89042/Terry-in-top-cash-target/)

 

[guru_007]

No discussion on Michael Owen to Manchester United, I see...I've always liked Owen...one of those guys who reminds me of myself on the field. Good to see him staying in the top flight...he's obviously good enough.

I'm a big Owen fan. He was the only Brit I wanted to do well in the past.I hope he can get one or two injury free seasons in to regain some of the favor he should have from the fans. If he can get 10 goals this year I think it is a good move for ManU, too.I didn't read the articles in detail, but did any of them reveal contact terms. He probably has a very lower base salary, but a good game splayed/goals scored bonus. If he is healthy he can be a goal scoring machine. What does he have total for England 40ish or so?There was no way he was going to Championship...and I am not sad about it.

I also enjoyed Owen's play when he was younger. He was fast, and your prototypical lethal striker.He's not that player any longer. United gained Owen/Valencia and lost Ronaldo/TevezI'm pretty sure this will be a net loss in terms of goals this year. I do expect much better play from Berbatov this year....but if Rooney goes down for any extended period, the attack is going to be pretty miserable. United still has a ton of talented young guys - perhaps one of them steps up this year. I think they are still at least a year or two away from being first eleven type players.As for City - well, they certainly have a crap load of talent in the middle and up front. I'm not sure about the back and goal however. Robinho in the EPL is a mystery to me. There were times I watched City play, and with a healthy Ireland, they had a dynamic attack...before the additions of Santa Cruz, Tevez and Barry. And then there were times were nothing came about offensively I have to think this year's side will be top 6 at least, with top 4 potential for sure.The team to watch this season imho is going to be Chelsea. I think they are the team to beat in the premiership. There are still a few questions swirling about, primarily Terry and Drogba..maybe Deco...but this was a team that had tons of injuries last year to key players and still had a very nice season. The back Boswinga/Terry/Cole/Alex...even if Carvalho leaves. this team is so deep. They tied United for the toughest to score against last year and their attack will be bolsted with the return of the likes of Essien, Joe Cole....You still have Ballack and Lampard. there. Chelsea also made a very nice signing on a guy I was crossing my fingers that United would get in Daniel Sturridge. He may not be an impact player next year, but at only 19 years old, he is extremely talented.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

The team to watch this season imho is going to be Chelsea. I think they are the team to beat in the premiership. There are still a few questions swirling about, primarily Terry and Drogba..maybe Deco...but this was a team that had tons of injuries last year to key players and still had a very nice season. The back Boswinga/Terry/Cole/Alex...even if Carvalho leaves. this team is so deep. They tied United for the toughest to score against last year and their attack will be bolsted with the return of the likes of Essien, Joe Cole....You still have Ballack and Lampard. there. Chelsea also made a very nice signing on a guy I was crossing my fingers that United would get in Daniel Sturridge. He may not be an impact player next year, but at only 19 years old, he is extremely talented.

Deco is almost certainly gone and Carvalho will leave if a big club is interested in paying for him. It looks likely they will not make a huge signing again this season, but I really like what I've seen and read about Zhirkov. I think he's going to press Malouda on the wing. Big question mark is Ancelotti - no idea how he will work out.

 

[Bonzai]

ESPNs WC roster rankings:

Overrated:

11 Striker Brian Ching Houston star is still the best target man option the U.S. has. Work rate and ability to hold up the ball are pluses. Critics question his ability to score goals against top-tier international sides.

13 Midfielder Ricardo Clark Aside from a silly red card against Italy, Clark made a strong case in South Africa to be the team's starting defensive midfielder. Brings lots of range and energy to the midfield, but needs to cut down on reckless mistakes.

18 Defender Danny Califf Solid backup, provides insurance and depth at center back, though he's slipped in the pecking order following DeMerit's emergence. Could face pressure from the likes of Chad Marshall for the fourth center back spot.

19 Defender Jonathan Bornstein For now, Bornstein would still appear to be the favored specialist left back in Bob Bradley's plans. Solid going forward, but questions remain about his defensive ability.

21 Goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann The 37-year-old Hahnemann provides depth and veteran experience as the third goalkeeper. Could face a challenge from Troy Perkins to his place in the pecking order.

22 Midfielder DaMarcus Beasley Barely holding on to a roster spot after having suffered a huge drop-off in his play due to injuries and lack of playing time at club level in the past two years. Right now he looks like a shell of the player who shone in the 2002 World Cup. However, he has longtime ties with coach Bradley and his defensive tenacity is still valued.

23 Striker Conor Casey Not to everyone's tastes, but the Colorado forward provides a physical presence up front as a target man and added insurance if Ching is injured.

Underrated

12 Striker Charlie Davies Showed off his explosive speed and effectiveness in pairing with Altidore at the Confederations Cup. After flourishing in Sweden the last two years, has made the move to the French Ligue with Sochaux.

14 Midfielder Benny Feilhaber It's been a series of highs-and-lows for Feilhaber since his game-winning goal in the 2007 Gold Cup. However, when healthy, Feilhaber adds an element of creativity, poise and ball control to the U.S. midfield.

20 Midfielder Maurice Edu The talented Edu has been temporarily derailed by injury, but his roster spot as one of the team's holding midfielders would still seem assured. Ability to fill in as an emergency center back is an added plus.

17 Defender Steve Cherundolo Team's former undisputed No. 1 right back is determined to reclaim his position following injury. Well-rounded fullback who can both attack and defend.

27 Midfielder José Torres Another young talent who appears to be on the cusp of the U.S. squad. Stock looked to be on the rise until a benching at halftime against Costa Rica in the June World Cup qualifier. He hasn't been seen since.

28 Forward Robbie Rogers A dynamic left winger with pace to burn but inconsistent end product and delivery. Rogers has shone so far in the Gold Cup to press his claims for a senior squad berth.

29 Defender Edgar Castillo Another wild card due to FIFA's eligibility rule change. Castillo, who plays for Mexican club team Santos, has expressed interest in playing for the U.S. He could potentially displace the current incumbents at left back.

31 Midfielder Stuart Holden The young Houston midfielder has raised some eyebrows and entered the mix with his standout play in the Gold Cup. Holden has impressed with his versatility, poise and long-range shooting.