Friday, January 01, 2010
Some help for Landon Donovan
Donovan, who has joined Everton on a 10 week loan, got a little help in making the bench or starting line-up for the Toffees as Everton has suspended Brazilian striker Jo for disciplinary breaches.
How a new Designated Player rule will shape Major League Soccer - Daily Soccer Fix#storyjump
Steve Davis has a pretty good peice up taking about the MLS Designated Player rule, a three year experiment that is coming to an end officially, although all indications seem to indicate that it will continue. Davis notes that some people in and around MLS are worried that the addition of a second DP will create a small market/big market split like that which exists in baseball.
With a strict salary cap in place and also not likely to disappear even in a new collective bargaining agreement, a small market/big market split seems unlikely. However, there is a much greater concern that would need to be addressed if a second DP were to become the norm.
If clubs are willing to pay for a second DP, they must--indeed they are morally obligated--to ensure that all players, even the most junior development player is paid a living wage of no less than $50,000 per year and must be willing to guarantee those contracts.
From a purely academic sense, I have no objection to a second DP, but you cannot have two or three players making six or seven figures a year and then have players making less than $20,000 a year. But if owners are willing to part with seven figures a year on two players, they need to make sure they are paying their full squad a living salary for a professional athlete. For a league that has demonstrated, not unwisely, a concern for the bottom line, having to DP's and a group of four or five junior players making less a year than a DP makes in a month is a moral outrage.
So if owners like those reportedly in LA, New York and Seattle are willing to pay a second DP, those same owners had better be lobbying their peers vociferously for a minimum salary and guaranteed contracts.
With a strict salary cap in place and also not likely to disappear even in a new collective bargaining agreement, a small market/big market split seems unlikely. However, there is a much greater concern that would need to be addressed if a second DP were to become the norm.
If clubs are willing to pay for a second DP, they must--indeed they are morally obligated--to ensure that all players, even the most junior development player is paid a living wage of no less than $50,000 per year and must be willing to guarantee those contracts.
From a purely academic sense, I have no objection to a second DP, but you cannot have two or three players making six or seven figures a year and then have players making less than $20,000 a year. But if owners are willing to part with seven figures a year on two players, they need to make sure they are paying their full squad a living salary for a professional athlete. For a league that has demonstrated, not unwisely, a concern for the bottom line, having to DP's and a group of four or five junior players making less a year than a DP makes in a month is a moral outrage.
So if owners like those reportedly in LA, New York and Seattle are willing to pay a second DP, those same owners had better be lobbying their peers vociferously for a minimum salary and guaranteed contracts.
Let the Silly Season Begin
For those who follow soccer on an international stage, today is the opening of the January Transfer Window, where players are permitted to change clubs either permanently or on a loan basis and play for different clubs.
It tends to get a little ridiculous, with rumor swirling and twirling around. Obscene transfer fees are discussed and "never going to happen" rumors are posted every couple of hours.
It is fun to listen to and watch, but this year, I am going to try and keep my speculation to a minimum. I hope.
It tends to get a little ridiculous, with rumor swirling and twirling around. Obscene transfer fees are discussed and "never going to happen" rumors are posted every couple of hours.
It is fun to listen to and watch, but this year, I am going to try and keep my speculation to a minimum. I hope.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
My Favorite Soccer Memory of 2009
Today being New Year's Eve, there are a lot of posts going up on blogs about the year that was. For me there are lots of good soccer memories for 2009:
But I think my favorite memory this year is one that maybe only 10 people saw this year. It doesn't involve any professional league, any professional player, not even college, high school or even premier level youth competitions. It took place on on a Sunday afternoon in September in a girls U11 match in which I was working as an assistant referee.
The memory goes like this: it is about 15 minutes into the second half. The play is going on in the far corner from my position in the other half of the field. The ball squirts in towards the keeper and she collects the ball and makes a big punt down field. The ball goes over the heads of the defenders and I start tracking along with the ball, as is my job. This young girl, her pony tail streaming behind her is chasing after the ball with this huge grin on her face. She collects the ball, dribbles twice and takes a shot that sails over the crossbar by about 6 feet--not even close. Her coach is dismayed, her teammates are dismayed, you hear this groan from the parents (they were on the side of the field opposite me). But I looked at this girl and she was just smiling away--not a care in the world. It didn't bother her that she missed a goal scoring opportunity--she was just smiling, playing the game.
That, to me, is what the game is all about, kids having a good time. It is easy to forget as fans of professional teams, fans of college teams or international teams, that soccer begins and ends with a bunch of people, young or old, kicking the ball around for fun. Everyday in America and around the world, you will find a kid, running after a ball, whether in an organized match with referees and coaches or a pick up game in the streets or park or beach, with a huge grin on his/her face. That is what soccer is all about--grinning kids.
That September Sunday didn't mean anything to any league--it was a recreational game with nothing on the line. Like I said, I would be surprised if 10 people saw the grin on this girls face; a girl whose name I don't know, wouldn't recognize her if she kicked me in the shin, but in that one brief six or seven seconds, she reminded me of why I love the game of soccer, why I referee and why I write about soccer:
Because it is fun!
So to that 10 year old girl with the big smile on her face--thank you for my best soccer memory of 2009 because it truly reminded me of why soccer is the Beautiful Game!!
- Fulham qualifying for the Europa League on the back of their best Premier League Finish Ever.
- U.S. National Team making the Confederations Cup Final--their first FIFA international tournament final appearance (even if it was the Confederations Cup)
- U.S. 2-0 Spain--what a great win
- Jonathan Bornstein's header to assure U.S. wins the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying
- The MLS Rookie Class--man they were good
- The Charlie Davies #9 9th Minute Display in the U.S.-Costa Rica qualifying match and at other MLS venues across the country that week
- DC United's Ben Olsen in what turned out to be his final season as a player
But I think my favorite memory this year is one that maybe only 10 people saw this year. It doesn't involve any professional league, any professional player, not even college, high school or even premier level youth competitions. It took place on on a Sunday afternoon in September in a girls U11 match in which I was working as an assistant referee.
The memory goes like this: it is about 15 minutes into the second half. The play is going on in the far corner from my position in the other half of the field. The ball squirts in towards the keeper and she collects the ball and makes a big punt down field. The ball goes over the heads of the defenders and I start tracking along with the ball, as is my job. This young girl, her pony tail streaming behind her is chasing after the ball with this huge grin on her face. She collects the ball, dribbles twice and takes a shot that sails over the crossbar by about 6 feet--not even close. Her coach is dismayed, her teammates are dismayed, you hear this groan from the parents (they were on the side of the field opposite me). But I looked at this girl and she was just smiling away--not a care in the world. It didn't bother her that she missed a goal scoring opportunity--she was just smiling, playing the game.
That, to me, is what the game is all about, kids having a good time. It is easy to forget as fans of professional teams, fans of college teams or international teams, that soccer begins and ends with a bunch of people, young or old, kicking the ball around for fun. Everyday in America and around the world, you will find a kid, running after a ball, whether in an organized match with referees and coaches or a pick up game in the streets or park or beach, with a huge grin on his/her face. That is what soccer is all about--grinning kids.
That September Sunday didn't mean anything to any league--it was a recreational game with nothing on the line. Like I said, I would be surprised if 10 people saw the grin on this girls face; a girl whose name I don't know, wouldn't recognize her if she kicked me in the shin, but in that one brief six or seven seconds, she reminded me of why I love the game of soccer, why I referee and why I write about soccer:
Because it is fun!
So to that 10 year old girl with the big smile on her face--thank you for my best soccer memory of 2009 because it truly reminded me of why soccer is the Beautiful Game!!
Monday, December 28, 2009
DC United Will Name Curt Onalfo Head Coach
Officially in a January press conference, former DC United player and assistant coach Curt Onalfo will be named the new DC United Coach.
There are some United followers who are disappointed in DC United's selection of Onalfo and I am one of them, but not for the reasons that many supporters are disappointed. Some commnetators worry that Onalfo doesn't have the chops to make it as DC's coach based on his performance in Kansas City. I tend to give Onalfo the benefit of the doubt on this matter. I think at KC he had some personnel issues, i.e. lack of attacking talent and then some injury problems. I think though that he was on the right track in KC, but needed probably another season with healthy players and a couple of good acquisitions for attackers. But alas for Onalfo, that was not to be. In DC, Onalfo will not be begging for attacking talent, no his problem will be on the defensive side of things.
Rather my disappointment with the Onalfo selection has nothing to do with the man himself, but with the lack of creativity DC United showed with this process. DC United has one of the best front office staffs in the League and they know how to identify players, and work the salary cap. Why not bring in a coach from outside the MLS fraternity to push the envelope of soccer in America. Kevin Payne said that they wanted a coach that had ties to the tradition of attacking soccer in DC. But why do you need someone with ties to DC to promote attacking soccer.
There are coaches out there in the world, coaches with a background in attacking soccer who can introduce something new to the league, something few coaches have ever seen and would give DC a real leg up in the coming years, combining excellent knowledge with terrific talent. With Payne and the rest of the DC United front office, I think the inevitable hiccups that come with a non-MLS coach would be minimized.
But DC United went with a safe coach. I don't think Onalfo will do a bad job--it is just that DC United could have done a much better job by selecting a coach outside the MLS circles. This league cries out for that change and it may be New York (ugh) that makes that move.
There are some United followers who are disappointed in DC United's selection of Onalfo and I am one of them, but not for the reasons that many supporters are disappointed. Some commnetators worry that Onalfo doesn't have the chops to make it as DC's coach based on his performance in Kansas City. I tend to give Onalfo the benefit of the doubt on this matter. I think at KC he had some personnel issues, i.e. lack of attacking talent and then some injury problems. I think though that he was on the right track in KC, but needed probably another season with healthy players and a couple of good acquisitions for attackers. But alas for Onalfo, that was not to be. In DC, Onalfo will not be begging for attacking talent, no his problem will be on the defensive side of things.
Rather my disappointment with the Onalfo selection has nothing to do with the man himself, but with the lack of creativity DC United showed with this process. DC United has one of the best front office staffs in the League and they know how to identify players, and work the salary cap. Why not bring in a coach from outside the MLS fraternity to push the envelope of soccer in America. Kevin Payne said that they wanted a coach that had ties to the tradition of attacking soccer in DC. But why do you need someone with ties to DC to promote attacking soccer.
There are coaches out there in the world, coaches with a background in attacking soccer who can introduce something new to the league, something few coaches have ever seen and would give DC a real leg up in the coming years, combining excellent knowledge with terrific talent. With Payne and the rest of the DC United front office, I think the inevitable hiccups that come with a non-MLS coach would be minimized.
But DC United went with a safe coach. I don't think Onalfo will do a bad job--it is just that DC United could have done a much better job by selecting a coach outside the MLS circles. This league cries out for that change and it may be New York (ugh) that makes that move.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
The Counter Attack Goal
One of the criticisms that I hear from non-soccer fans is that the game is slow, that there is little excitement. True, the game can be slow and negative sometimes, but when that is happening, don't blink because you might miss something brilliant--the counter-attack goal. The ball can go from one end of the field to the other in ten seconds and a goal result. There are few things as exciting in soccer than a brilliant counter attack goal, and few things as quick. The Brazilian national team is perhaps the absolute best at it, with the joke being that only against Brazil can they consider a defensive corner kick to be a potential goal scoring opportunity.
But done right, the counterattack goal can be an absolute thing of beauty. Although there have been many counters this year, the following two are gems of the counterattack goal:
Here is the Manchester United-Arsenel Champions League Semi-final in which Cristiano Ronaldo put on a show at the Emirates Stadium with two goals and an assist. The third goal in the clip is a brilliant counter attack, started and finished by Ronaldo.
Wath the bottom of the screen as Ronaldo puts on the burners and sprints some 80 yards to get on the end of Wayne Rooney's pass to score on a one-timer. Three players, seven touches, about 80 yards, and just about nine seconds to score. That is how long that took.
But, as a national team fan, this one has to be my favorite:
This one is similar to the Ronaldo goal but goes a little further in distance, the ball going about 100 yards, from Ricardo Clark, to Landon Donovan to Charlies Davies back to Donovan. Five touches, 9.5 seconds from Clark to the back of the net and three one touch passes to get it done.
It is the potential for a counter attack goal, which may come at any time, that makes soccer fantastic to watch, that makes it the beautiful game. In American football, the game comes in bursts of 8, 9 seconds, you would think the Americans would understand and embrace the possibility in soccer. So don't close your eyes to the speed of the game--it will surprise you.
But done right, the counterattack goal can be an absolute thing of beauty. Although there have been many counters this year, the following two are gems of the counterattack goal:
Here is the Manchester United-Arsenel Champions League Semi-final in which Cristiano Ronaldo put on a show at the Emirates Stadium with two goals and an assist. The third goal in the clip is a brilliant counter attack, started and finished by Ronaldo.
Wath the bottom of the screen as Ronaldo puts on the burners and sprints some 80 yards to get on the end of Wayne Rooney's pass to score on a one-timer. Three players, seven touches, about 80 yards, and just about nine seconds to score. That is how long that took.
But, as a national team fan, this one has to be my favorite:
This one is similar to the Ronaldo goal but goes a little further in distance, the ball going about 100 yards, from Ricardo Clark, to Landon Donovan to Charlies Davies back to Donovan. Five touches, 9.5 seconds from Clark to the back of the net and three one touch passes to get it done.
It is the potential for a counter attack goal, which may come at any time, that makes soccer fantastic to watch, that makes it the beautiful game. In American football, the game comes in bursts of 8, 9 seconds, you would think the Americans would understand and embrace the possibility in soccer. So don't close your eyes to the speed of the game--it will surprise you.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
U.S. National Team January Camp
U.S. National Team Coach Bob Bradley has named a 30 player roster for the annual January camp. As expected the roster is heavy with MLS Talent (25 players) and players from Scandanavian leagues who are in their winter break as well.
Here is the roster in toto:
GOALKEEPERS: Kevin Hartman (Kansas City), Troy Perkins (Valerenga), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake), Zach Thornton (Chivas USA)
DEFENDERS: Kevin Alston (New England Revolution), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City Wizards), Omar Gonzalez (Los Angeles Galaxy), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
MIDFIELDERS: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Örebro), Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus), Eddie Gaven (Columbus Crew), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Jeff Larentowicz (New England Revolution), Dax McCarty (FC Dallas), Chris Pontius (D.C. United), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)
FORWARDS: Justin Braun (Chivas USA), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Brandon McDonald (San Jose Earthquakes), Marcus Tracy (Aalborg)
Initial thoughts are that there are few surprises here on tis list. Bradley has called in a lot of young players who, while having no real shot at making the World Cup 23 next summer, deserve to get a good look for future years and possible Gold Cup inclusion for the 2011 Gold Cup. Given that most of the European leagues are still operational, there are some European youngsters that I would like to have seen, but there is little Bradley can do in that respect since this January camp is not a FIFA sanctioned break in league play.
Breaking matters down by position:
GOALKEEPERS: Kevin Hartman (Kansas City), Troy Perkins (Valerenga), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake), Zach Thornton (Chivas USA).
All three MLS keepers played themselves into camp this year. Hartman was consistent as always, if stuck on a team that seems a bit of a train wreck in all other areas. Rimando should make a training video about penalties and Thorton is a come-back story of the year. Despite all that, Perkins is the only one here that is really fighting for a spot on the World Cup Roster. Perkins will be battling Marcus Hahnemann for the third keeper spot. With that in mind, I would have loved to see Bradley call in Chris Seitz from the Philly Union or perhaps Bill Hamid from DC United. Short of a complete meltdown of Tim Howard and Brad Guzan, Hartman, Rimando and Thorton will not be seriously on the radar screen. Getting Hamid and Seitz some time with the National team would have been a good move.
DEFENDERS: Kevin Alston (New England Revolution), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City Wizards), Omar Gonzalez (Los Angeles Galaxy), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
Every one of these guys is a good call. Alston and Gonzalez, the two MLS rookies on the list, had great seasons, with lots of minutes with club coaches who really know what they are doing. Bornstein and Pearce are battling for the World Cup roster (and I give Bornstein a bit of a edge right now, but that can change in this camp). Marshall and Goodson are possibilities, but Conrad might be a bit more of an edge if for no other reason that experience. I once thought Wynne would be a lock for the national team, with his strenght, attacking mindset and mind-blowing speed, he looked to be on the fast track, but several weak performances put the brakes on his development. Perhaps with Preki at the helm in Toronto next year, Wynne could be looking at a 2014 World Cup roster spot. For now, Pearce, Bornstein and probably Marsall are the most likely contenders for a spot. But with Jay DeMerit healthy and playing for Watford again, it is looking like there will be fewer defensive spots than anyone thought on the plane to South Africa.
MIDFIELDERS: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Örebro), Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus), Eddie Gaven (Columbus Crew), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Jeff Larentowicz (New England Revolution), Dax McCarty (FC Dallas), Chris Pontius (D.C. United), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)
This group is a little harder to see breaking into the U.S. squad if they aren't already there. I think Feilhaber clearly has a line for South Africa, if he can play consistently well in the next six months to the level he has in the past six months for club and country. The U.S. midfield is loaded with talent and barring injuries, I don't see many players from here making the cut. Outside of Feilhaber, Beckerman and Kljestan have the best shots. There are fewer players on the U.S. squad who can combine the unquestioned work ethic of Beckerman--a true box to box midfielder who doesn't mind doing the dirty work of a holding midfielder and does the job well. Kljestan has some attacking flair, but has been inconsistent of late, particularly since is hat trick performance in last year's camp.
As much as it seems odd to say about a seven year MLS veteran, Eddie Gaven isn't breaking into this U.S. squad. Robbie Rogers might, but with the resurgence of DeMarcus Beasley, I am starting to wonder if Rogers will be the U.S. left wing option behind Landon Donovan. As much as I like Chris Pontius and his massive season at DC United, he is at this camp for experience and I just don't see him on the South Africa squad.
Oddly enough, the wild cards here are Geoff Cameron and Jeff Larentowitz. Larentowitz had a solid year for a New England REvolution team that simply struggled with injury. Antoher box to box workhorse, Larentowitz played his way into this camp, but with several quality holding midfielders before him in the pecking order, I don't see him making the cut. Cameron on the other hand is a little different. Houston coach Dominick Kinnear has in Cameron one of the most versatile midfielder/defenders in MLS. Cameron played just about every position for Kinnear but goalkeeper and striker. Cameron is another workhorse who can play in any role needed. Bradley may need some flexibility, particularly if Bradley's go to utilty midfielder/deferner Mo Edu isn't back to fitness and game sharpness.
Of the midfield group, after Feilhaber, Beckerman, Cameron and Kljestan would have to be favorites for even a hint at a World Cup ticket.
FORWARDS: Justin Braun (Chivas USA), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Brandon McDonald (San Jose Earthquakes), Marcus Tracy (Aalborg)
Of this list, most people are probably exicted to see Robbie Findlay's name on the list. Findlay is most like Charlie Davies and seems a natural replacement. The most notable name missing from this list is Brian Ching, who for a long time was Bradley's go to target striker. But I think something interesting has happened to Bob Bradley since the Confederations' Cup, namely that he doesn't always have to play a target striker and a speed striker and that mixing up the look can achieve results. The most interesting names on the list are Marcus Tracy (who just left Aalborg) and Brandon McDonald. I never really thought of McDonald as a striker, but more of an attacking midfielder. But Tracy had a great year for Aalborg and earned this shot. I don't think Tracy will make the World Cup squad before Findlay, but Tracy has held his own in the face of some good competition and a good showing here could see his stock rise well.
Despite the hopes of many that Charlie Davies will be back for the World Cup, I just don't see it. That puts Findlay in the driver's seat. I think Conor Casey might make the list anyway. He isn't pretty, he isn't fun to watch, but he gets a job done, is big, strong and can hold his own against defenders and that is somehting that Bob Bradley isn't necessarily ready to give up just yet.
At best, 12-15 players on this list have a shot of playing themselves onto 23 man World Cup Roster. Some of these guys are young, exciting MLS stars or future stars as well has players who are starting to light up the European leagues. I think Bob Bradley can learn a lot for the future, but not so much right now.
Here is the roster in toto:
GOALKEEPERS: Kevin Hartman (Kansas City), Troy Perkins (Valerenga), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake), Zach Thornton (Chivas USA)
DEFENDERS: Kevin Alston (New England Revolution), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City Wizards), Omar Gonzalez (Los Angeles Galaxy), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
MIDFIELDERS: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Örebro), Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus), Eddie Gaven (Columbus Crew), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Jeff Larentowicz (New England Revolution), Dax McCarty (FC Dallas), Chris Pontius (D.C. United), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)
FORWARDS: Justin Braun (Chivas USA), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Brandon McDonald (San Jose Earthquakes), Marcus Tracy (Aalborg)
Initial thoughts are that there are few surprises here on tis list. Bradley has called in a lot of young players who, while having no real shot at making the World Cup 23 next summer, deserve to get a good look for future years and possible Gold Cup inclusion for the 2011 Gold Cup. Given that most of the European leagues are still operational, there are some European youngsters that I would like to have seen, but there is little Bradley can do in that respect since this January camp is not a FIFA sanctioned break in league play.
Breaking matters down by position:
GOALKEEPERS: Kevin Hartman (Kansas City), Troy Perkins (Valerenga), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake), Zach Thornton (Chivas USA).
All three MLS keepers played themselves into camp this year. Hartman was consistent as always, if stuck on a team that seems a bit of a train wreck in all other areas. Rimando should make a training video about penalties and Thorton is a come-back story of the year. Despite all that, Perkins is the only one here that is really fighting for a spot on the World Cup Roster. Perkins will be battling Marcus Hahnemann for the third keeper spot. With that in mind, I would have loved to see Bradley call in Chris Seitz from the Philly Union or perhaps Bill Hamid from DC United. Short of a complete meltdown of Tim Howard and Brad Guzan, Hartman, Rimando and Thorton will not be seriously on the radar screen. Getting Hamid and Seitz some time with the National team would have been a good move.
DEFENDERS: Kevin Alston (New England Revolution), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City Wizards), Omar Gonzalez (Los Angeles Galaxy), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
Every one of these guys is a good call. Alston and Gonzalez, the two MLS rookies on the list, had great seasons, with lots of minutes with club coaches who really know what they are doing. Bornstein and Pearce are battling for the World Cup roster (and I give Bornstein a bit of a edge right now, but that can change in this camp). Marshall and Goodson are possibilities, but Conrad might be a bit more of an edge if for no other reason that experience. I once thought Wynne would be a lock for the national team, with his strenght, attacking mindset and mind-blowing speed, he looked to be on the fast track, but several weak performances put the brakes on his development. Perhaps with Preki at the helm in Toronto next year, Wynne could be looking at a 2014 World Cup roster spot. For now, Pearce, Bornstein and probably Marsall are the most likely contenders for a spot. But with Jay DeMerit healthy and playing for Watford again, it is looking like there will be fewer defensive spots than anyone thought on the plane to South Africa.
MIDFIELDERS: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Örebro), Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus), Eddie Gaven (Columbus Crew), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Jeff Larentowicz (New England Revolution), Dax McCarty (FC Dallas), Chris Pontius (D.C. United), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)
This group is a little harder to see breaking into the U.S. squad if they aren't already there. I think Feilhaber clearly has a line for South Africa, if he can play consistently well in the next six months to the level he has in the past six months for club and country. The U.S. midfield is loaded with talent and barring injuries, I don't see many players from here making the cut. Outside of Feilhaber, Beckerman and Kljestan have the best shots. There are fewer players on the U.S. squad who can combine the unquestioned work ethic of Beckerman--a true box to box midfielder who doesn't mind doing the dirty work of a holding midfielder and does the job well. Kljestan has some attacking flair, but has been inconsistent of late, particularly since is hat trick performance in last year's camp.
As much as it seems odd to say about a seven year MLS veteran, Eddie Gaven isn't breaking into this U.S. squad. Robbie Rogers might, but with the resurgence of DeMarcus Beasley, I am starting to wonder if Rogers will be the U.S. left wing option behind Landon Donovan. As much as I like Chris Pontius and his massive season at DC United, he is at this camp for experience and I just don't see him on the South Africa squad.
Oddly enough, the wild cards here are Geoff Cameron and Jeff Larentowitz. Larentowitz had a solid year for a New England REvolution team that simply struggled with injury. Antoher box to box workhorse, Larentowitz played his way into this camp, but with several quality holding midfielders before him in the pecking order, I don't see him making the cut. Cameron on the other hand is a little different. Houston coach Dominick Kinnear has in Cameron one of the most versatile midfielder/defenders in MLS. Cameron played just about every position for Kinnear but goalkeeper and striker. Cameron is another workhorse who can play in any role needed. Bradley may need some flexibility, particularly if Bradley's go to utilty midfielder/deferner Mo Edu isn't back to fitness and game sharpness.
Of the midfield group, after Feilhaber, Beckerman, Cameron and Kljestan would have to be favorites for even a hint at a World Cup ticket.
FORWARDS: Justin Braun (Chivas USA), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Brandon McDonald (San Jose Earthquakes), Marcus Tracy (Aalborg)
Of this list, most people are probably exicted to see Robbie Findlay's name on the list. Findlay is most like Charlie Davies and seems a natural replacement. The most notable name missing from this list is Brian Ching, who for a long time was Bradley's go to target striker. But I think something interesting has happened to Bob Bradley since the Confederations' Cup, namely that he doesn't always have to play a target striker and a speed striker and that mixing up the look can achieve results. The most interesting names on the list are Marcus Tracy (who just left Aalborg) and Brandon McDonald. I never really thought of McDonald as a striker, but more of an attacking midfielder. But Tracy had a great year for Aalborg and earned this shot. I don't think Tracy will make the World Cup squad before Findlay, but Tracy has held his own in the face of some good competition and a good showing here could see his stock rise well.
Despite the hopes of many that Charlie Davies will be back for the World Cup, I just don't see it. That puts Findlay in the driver's seat. I think Conor Casey might make the list anyway. He isn't pretty, he isn't fun to watch, but he gets a job done, is big, strong and can hold his own against defenders and that is somehting that Bob Bradley isn't necessarily ready to give up just yet.
At best, 12-15 players on this list have a shot of playing themselves onto 23 man World Cup Roster. Some of these guys are young, exciting MLS stars or future stars as well has players who are starting to light up the European leagues. I think Bob Bradley can learn a lot for the future, but not so much right now.
Monday, December 21, 2009
That Just Has to Hurt the Climate Crowd
Who is more respected, Sarah Palin or Al Gore? The Answer is Sarah Palin, buy five percent.
Sarah Palin may not be teh sharpest knife in the drawer, but people perceive her as real. In a time when too many of our leaders, are packaged, branded and handled, Palin comes across as just who she is? People may not like what she stands for, but at least they know what she stands for and that generates respect, even if you don't agree with her.
Sarah Palin may not be teh sharpest knife in the drawer, but people perceive her as real. In a time when too many of our leaders, are packaged, branded and handled, Palin comes across as just who she is? People may not like what she stands for, but at least they know what she stands for and that generates respect, even if you don't agree with her.
"It doesn't 'border on immoral': It drives straight through the frontier post and heads for the dark heartland of immoral."
Mark Steyn on the rank bribery going on to get the health care bill done.
Look, I know "favors" are traded in order to corral votes, but the Senate is not even trying to demonstrate any kind of trade here--it is simply the purchase of votes.
Here is the funny thing to me. Democrats and campaign finance demagogues routinely claim that a $5,000 or even a $25,000 bundle of contributions can "buy" votes in Congress. Sorry, there is no one better at buying votes and a Congressional leader who wants to get a bill passed. To paraphrase Steyn, if I give $2300 to a Congressional candidate--that is my money and my choice. But Congress is spending my money to buy votes of people who don't represent me for their bill that I don't support.
Yeah, the heartland of immoral.
Look, I know "favors" are traded in order to corral votes, but the Senate is not even trying to demonstrate any kind of trade here--it is simply the purchase of votes.
Here is the funny thing to me. Democrats and campaign finance demagogues routinely claim that a $5,000 or even a $25,000 bundle of contributions can "buy" votes in Congress. Sorry, there is no one better at buying votes and a Congressional leader who wants to get a bill passed. To paraphrase Steyn, if I give $2300 to a Congressional candidate--that is my money and my choice. But Congress is spending my money to buy votes of people who don't represent me for their bill that I don't support.
Yeah, the heartland of immoral.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Seriously? This is a good argument?
President Obama says that unless we pass a $2 trillion dollar bill that will effectively socialize 1/6 of the economy, America will bankrupt. Seems like we are on that road without the bill.
When the Rules Don't Work for Democrats, They Simply Ignore them
The Senate, like any legislative body, has rules regarding the manner in which debate on the Senate Floor is supposed to occur. But the desperation of the Democratic Majority in the Senate to get a health care bill passed as soon as possible is such that they no longer abide by them.
James Simpson at American Thinker blog has the latest story of how Democrats will dispense with the rules when they don't like what is happening.
James Simpson at American Thinker blog has the latest story of how Democrats will dispense with the rules when they don't like what is happening.
This is What is Wrong with MLS Rules: FC Dallas puts Van Den Bergh on trade block
Ives Galarcip ntoes that FC Dallas is shopping Dave Van Den Berg. Now, I don't necessarily have a problem with that, lots of teams do it. The problem is that FC Dallas declined to exercise the option on Van Den Bergh's contract, which essentially means that Van Den Bergh is a free agent. But MLS rules say that FC Dallas retains his rights. That is just bloody stupid.
For the non-soccer readers out this, this is comparable to you have a contract with a company for one year and an option by the company to extend that contract for another year. Now imagine that this company, after the first year determines that while they were happy with your work, they simply don't have the money to pay you the salary that would be required in the option, so they say, thanks, but we aren't picking up the option. It sucks but that is the reality. Now imagine further that this company that no longer can afford your services has the right to accept or reject any job offers you receive!! In the rest of the world, soccer and non-soccer, if the company doesn't pick up that contract, you are free to seek employment elsewhere.
But in the crazy contract world of MLS, FC Dallas still retains the right to accept or reject bids for Van Den Bergh even thought they don't want to employ the man any more.
In a nutshell, this is one of the three major problems the MLS Player's Union has with MLS contracts and it is against FIFA rules, labor law, and not to mention just basic common sense.
For the non-soccer readers out this, this is comparable to you have a contract with a company for one year and an option by the company to extend that contract for another year. Now imagine that this company, after the first year determines that while they were happy with your work, they simply don't have the money to pay you the salary that would be required in the option, so they say, thanks, but we aren't picking up the option. It sucks but that is the reality. Now imagine further that this company that no longer can afford your services has the right to accept or reject any job offers you receive!! In the rest of the world, soccer and non-soccer, if the company doesn't pick up that contract, you are free to seek employment elsewhere.
But in the crazy contract world of MLS, FC Dallas still retains the right to accept or reject bids for Van Den Bergh even thought they don't want to employ the man any more.
In a nutshell, this is one of the three major problems the MLS Player's Union has with MLS contracts and it is against FIFA rules, labor law, and not to mention just basic common sense.
MLS News
There are lots of things coming out of the MLS on the news front.
My teams, DC United continues to look for a new head coach. The rumors about Akron's Caleb Porter coming to the Black and Red got axed when Porter decided to stay in the college game for a while longer. (In Porter's defense that is a smart move. He wants to build a legacy and while Akron is certainly on the way up, and it is all Porter's doing, I think showing that Akron can be a regular feature in the College Cup playoffs year-in and year-out like ACC teams or UCLA or Indiana would go a long way to cementing that status). Former Kansas City Coach Curt Onalfo is rumored to be atop the short list. But after reading this bit by Kartik Krishnaier, I am wondering why a coach like Colin Clarke hasn't been approached.
Clarke has coached at Puerto Rico Islanders in the USL for a number of years. Last year, he guided the Islanders to a dream run in the CONCACAF Champions League, including a semi-final appearance. Had they not utterly collapsed in the second leg of teh semi-final tie, they would have made the final. With the future of USL-1 in doubt for 2010, you have to wonder if perhaps Clark is there for the taking. Clark has experience in MLS (former with FC Dallas) and undeniable success with Puerto Rico. I think he is tactically sound, innovative and certainly capable of developing talent. He also knows how to not just win the league but how to work in the international competitions, which is the next big step for DC United. Of course, getting into the playoffs next year is vitaly important.
Onalfo doesn't cut it for me. I didn't think Porter would have either.
Landon Donovan's New Contract. This has to be one of the better moves the MLS has made in recent years. Securing Donovan to a four year contract does three things for the MLS. First, it shows the MLS is serious about keeping its star players, particuarly those who are the faces of the league (combine this with the effort to keep Stuart Holden and you can see a better understanding). Second, it makes Donovan's transfer value higher should Donovan do well for Everton on his short term loan AND performs well for the U.S. in South Africa. If Donovan does both of those things, an eight figure transfer fee will not be unreasonable as it has been in the past for Donovan. A $9 million deal means that the transfer fee would have to be $10 million or more. I would also suspect that there is a guaranteed buyout clause in the contract upwards of $20 million. Third, the contract extension sends a subtle signal that the MLS is not adverse to the notion of paying players more. Granted Donovan is, for all intents and purposes, a designated player without occupying a DP slot, but I think the league, during the time of the collective bargaining agreement negotiations, is a something of a positive sign. Donovan previously had a no-trade clause and I suspect he has one now and the contract is sure to be guaranteed for each given year. Despite Donovan's stature in the league, it is going to be hard for MLS to argue that junior players with $40,000 salaries shouldn't be entitled to the same protection, particularly when Donovan if for some reason he were released, would be able to get will employment in another league wihtout much difficulty. A squad player for New York Red Bull doesn't have the same employment prospects. So it shows that the league is willing to do contract guarantees for some players and they should do it for all players.
TheOriginalWinger.com has a photo-filled story of FC Dallas' keeper Dario Sala. It is an interesting story. I didn't know what led Sala to come to the U.S. originally, but he hints at security concerns for his (American) wife. There are no details, but hopefully he will return to full form this year in what could be a good year for Dallas. Note: I would love to see a discussion from Sala about team handball, which he played as a young man, I still don't get the game.
My teams, DC United continues to look for a new head coach. The rumors about Akron's Caleb Porter coming to the Black and Red got axed when Porter decided to stay in the college game for a while longer. (In Porter's defense that is a smart move. He wants to build a legacy and while Akron is certainly on the way up, and it is all Porter's doing, I think showing that Akron can be a regular feature in the College Cup playoffs year-in and year-out like ACC teams or UCLA or Indiana would go a long way to cementing that status). Former Kansas City Coach Curt Onalfo is rumored to be atop the short list. But after reading this bit by Kartik Krishnaier, I am wondering why a coach like Colin Clarke hasn't been approached.
Clarke has coached at Puerto Rico Islanders in the USL for a number of years. Last year, he guided the Islanders to a dream run in the CONCACAF Champions League, including a semi-final appearance. Had they not utterly collapsed in the second leg of teh semi-final tie, they would have made the final. With the future of USL-1 in doubt for 2010, you have to wonder if perhaps Clark is there for the taking. Clark has experience in MLS (former with FC Dallas) and undeniable success with Puerto Rico. I think he is tactically sound, innovative and certainly capable of developing talent. He also knows how to not just win the league but how to work in the international competitions, which is the next big step for DC United. Of course, getting into the playoffs next year is vitaly important.
Onalfo doesn't cut it for me. I didn't think Porter would have either.
Landon Donovan's New Contract. This has to be one of the better moves the MLS has made in recent years. Securing Donovan to a four year contract does three things for the MLS. First, it shows the MLS is serious about keeping its star players, particuarly those who are the faces of the league (combine this with the effort to keep Stuart Holden and you can see a better understanding). Second, it makes Donovan's transfer value higher should Donovan do well for Everton on his short term loan AND performs well for the U.S. in South Africa. If Donovan does both of those things, an eight figure transfer fee will not be unreasonable as it has been in the past for Donovan. A $9 million deal means that the transfer fee would have to be $10 million or more. I would also suspect that there is a guaranteed buyout clause in the contract upwards of $20 million. Third, the contract extension sends a subtle signal that the MLS is not adverse to the notion of paying players more. Granted Donovan is, for all intents and purposes, a designated player without occupying a DP slot, but I think the league, during the time of the collective bargaining agreement negotiations, is a something of a positive sign. Donovan previously had a no-trade clause and I suspect he has one now and the contract is sure to be guaranteed for each given year. Despite Donovan's stature in the league, it is going to be hard for MLS to argue that junior players with $40,000 salaries shouldn't be entitled to the same protection, particularly when Donovan if for some reason he were released, would be able to get will employment in another league wihtout much difficulty. A squad player for New York Red Bull doesn't have the same employment prospects. So it shows that the league is willing to do contract guarantees for some players and they should do it for all players.
TheOriginalWinger.com has a photo-filled story of FC Dallas' keeper Dario Sala. It is an interesting story. I didn't know what led Sala to come to the U.S. originally, but he hints at security concerns for his (American) wife. There are no details, but hopefully he will return to full form this year in what could be a good year for Dallas. Note: I would love to see a discussion from Sala about team handball, which he played as a young man, I still don't get the game.
Masschussetts 2nd Grader Suspended For Drawing Crucifix
A Taunton, MA second-grader was not only suspended form school, but ordered to undergo psychological counseling for DRAWING A CRUCIFIX.
Seriously, that is what we are doing? What kind of signal does that send to kids.
A Taunton father is outraged after his 8-year-old son was sent home from school and required to undergo a psychological evaluation after drawing a stick-figure picture of Jesus Christ on the cross.First, it does not matter if this was a "special needs" student or not. this is just blatantly stupid. You can argue about whether religion belongs in the schools or not, but even that kind of an argument doesn't apply when a student draws something that obviously had an impact on him.
The father said he got a call earlier this month from Maxham Elementary School informing him that his son, a second-grade student, had created a violent drawing. The image in question depicted a crucified Jesus with Xs covering his eyes to signify that he had died on the cross. The boy wrote his name above the cross.
“As far as I’m concerned, they’re violating his religion,” the incredulous father said.
He requested that his name and his son’s name be withheld from publication to protect the boy.
The student drew the picture shortly after taking a family trip to see the Christmas display at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette, a Christian retreat site in Attleboro. He made the drawing in class after his teacher asked the children to sketch something that reminded them of Christmas, the father said.
“I think what happened is that because he put Xs in the eyes of Jesus, the teacher was alarmed and they told the parents they thought it was violent,” said Toni Saunders, an educational consultant with the Associated Advocacy Center.
Saunders is working with the boy’s parents after a mutual acquaintance referred them to her.
“When I got that call, I was so appalled that I had to do something,” Saunders said.
“They weren’t looking at the fact that this is an 8-year-old child with special needs,” she added. “They made him leave school, and they recommended that a psychiatrist do an evaluation.”
Seriously, that is what we are doing? What kind of signal does that send to kids.
Baltimore Sued Wells Fargo--Seriously--For Causing Urban Blight.
The City of Baltimore sued Wells Fargo in an attempt to blame the mortgage lender for the blighted state of the city.
Seriously. The fact that Baltimore has so many blighted properties is all Wells Fargo's fault. In a time when the city has massive financial problems, it has decided to spend taxpayer money on suing a mortgage company that, according to the city's own attorneys, was responsible for 150 foreclosures. That is out of 30,000 vacant properties or one half of one percent (0.5%) of all vacant properties in the city.
I wonder how many mortgages in Baltimore that Wells Fargo has tried to work out? My guess, probably more than 150 and I am no big fan of Wells Fargo.
Seriously. The fact that Baltimore has so many blighted properties is all Wells Fargo's fault. In a time when the city has massive financial problems, it has decided to spend taxpayer money on suing a mortgage company that, according to the city's own attorneys, was responsible for 150 foreclosures. That is out of 30,000 vacant properties or one half of one percent (0.5%) of all vacant properties in the city.
I wonder how many mortgages in Baltimore that Wells Fargo has tried to work out? My guess, probably more than 150 and I am no big fan of Wells Fargo.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Soccer By Ives: Holden offered improved MLS contract as transfer window nears
Ives Galarcep, among others, are reporting that MLS is offering Houston Dynamo's Stuart Holden not on a contract increase but a massive contract increase in a bid to keep the young American in the MLS for the coming years.
Holden, probably Houston's biggest break out player from last year (maybe Geoff Cameron would give him a run for the money), is out of contract and has been rumored to be moving to Europe in January, with Scottish Premier League side Aberdeen being considered the most likely destination. Although details are sketchy, the rumor is that Holden will be offered a contract in the $300,00 to $400,000 range. This is not Designated Player salary, but it is a tenfold increase over Holden's $35,000 salary in 2009. the drawback is taht Holden can command a salary of $3 million a year in Europe.
However, MLS, if it is to grow as a league, needs to hold on to some of its young players, particularly those that have developed in MLS. Holden, two years ago, would be best considered to be the understudy to Dwayne DeRosario. But when DeRosario headed back to Canada, Holden was tapped by Houston Coach Dominick Kinnear to lead the midfield for the Dynamo. Combined with Holden's break out with the U.S. National Team, it has to be considered that MLS finalized the development of the young man.
So why the offer now? As has been reported by many MLS observers, the league needs to do a much better job keeping young talent in the league. And, Holden, even by objective standards is a good looking young man, is well-spoken and well-received by fans. He could become the American face of the league, particularly if a certain Landon Donovan moves to Europe on a permanent basis. But aside from the MLS player/marketing side, there is a bit more of a deviousness to the idea by the MLS.
MLS might be looking at Holden as a potential payday. Keeping Holden in the league through the World Cup, could result in a very significant payday in terms of a transfer fee. If MLS could sign Holden to a three year deal, then MLS could see a seven figure transfer fee, particularly if Holden has a good World Cup. As it stands right now, MLS gets nothing since Holden can leave in January on a free transfer.
I think Holden is heading to Europe, probably Scotland for at least a couple of years. Being Scottish born, with family in Scotland, Holden can make the transition to Europe a bit easier, allowing him to focus on playing rather than trying to get settled in and playing. Plus, even on $10,000 a week, he would be looking at a payrate well above what he would be making in the states.
Holden, probably Houston's biggest break out player from last year (maybe Geoff Cameron would give him a run for the money), is out of contract and has been rumored to be moving to Europe in January, with Scottish Premier League side Aberdeen being considered the most likely destination. Although details are sketchy, the rumor is that Holden will be offered a contract in the $300,00 to $400,000 range. This is not Designated Player salary, but it is a tenfold increase over Holden's $35,000 salary in 2009. the drawback is taht Holden can command a salary of $3 million a year in Europe.
However, MLS, if it is to grow as a league, needs to hold on to some of its young players, particularly those that have developed in MLS. Holden, two years ago, would be best considered to be the understudy to Dwayne DeRosario. But when DeRosario headed back to Canada, Holden was tapped by Houston Coach Dominick Kinnear to lead the midfield for the Dynamo. Combined with Holden's break out with the U.S. National Team, it has to be considered that MLS finalized the development of the young man.
So why the offer now? As has been reported by many MLS observers, the league needs to do a much better job keeping young talent in the league. And, Holden, even by objective standards is a good looking young man, is well-spoken and well-received by fans. He could become the American face of the league, particularly if a certain Landon Donovan moves to Europe on a permanent basis. But aside from the MLS player/marketing side, there is a bit more of a deviousness to the idea by the MLS.
MLS might be looking at Holden as a potential payday. Keeping Holden in the league through the World Cup, could result in a very significant payday in terms of a transfer fee. If MLS could sign Holden to a three year deal, then MLS could see a seven figure transfer fee, particularly if Holden has a good World Cup. As it stands right now, MLS gets nothing since Holden can leave in January on a free transfer.
I think Holden is heading to Europe, probably Scotland for at least a couple of years. Being Scottish born, with family in Scotland, Holden can make the transition to Europe a bit easier, allowing him to focus on playing rather than trying to get settled in and playing. Plus, even on $10,000 a week, he would be looking at a payrate well above what he would be making in the states.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Obama Officials, Check Your Talking Points Sheet
Lawrence Summers:
Look, I would expect Republicans and Democrats would disagree with whether the recession is over, but not two senior advisors to the President to publicly disagree on such a basic claim.
What are we as the American public to believe when it comes the message from our leaders when they can't even agree with themselves.
The President’s top economic advisor, Larry Summers, told me that “by spring employment growth will start turning positive.”Another advisor, Christina Romer: Of course the recession is not over.
During my "This Week" interview, Summers said that “everybody agrees that the recession is over,” but he did not say when the unemployment rate could be expected to drop further.
Look, I would expect Republicans and Democrats would disagree with whether the recession is over, but not two senior advisors to the President to publicly disagree on such a basic claim.
What are we as the American public to believe when it comes the message from our leaders when they can't even agree with themselves.
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