Photo by John Dorton/ISIphotos.com
By AVI CREDITOR
As surprising as the inclusions of Robbie Rogers, Freddy Adu and Chris Wondolowski on the United States Gold Cup roster might be, what is perhaps more eye-opening is the list of omissions.
Timmy Chandler, Teal Bunbury and Alejandro Bedoya were all left off of the U.S. team for this summer's tournament, opening coach Bob Bradley up for more criticism should he not succeed with the outside-the-box players he elected to chose.
Chandler's meteoric rise on the national team scene figured to make him a shoo-in for this summer. His attacking prowess from the back and speed up the right side added a new dimension to the U.S. national team, and he impressed mightily in friendlies against Argentina and Paraguay.
Bradley insisted on a conference call with the media that the 21-year-old Chandler was physically and mentally drained from his first season of top-flight soccer; however, reports from Germany seem to point in the direction of his club, FC Nuremberg, not wanting Chandler to spend his summer playing internationally as opposed to resting up for the club's preseason.
"We had a number of different discussions with him and the club," Bradley said. "When we added them all up, at the end of his first real season playing at this level, we felt that it didn't make sense at this time for him. He's carried a few little injuries as of late. He's told us that physically and mentally this season has been a hard one."
Bradley alluded to the notion that Chandler jumping ship to play for his native Germany is not really a concern. With Chandler only appearing in friendlies for the United States, that technically is still a possibility.
"The simple matter is the way things work, until a player plays in an official match, you don't know for sure," Bradley said. "In all of our conversations with Timmy he's always expressed how excited he is to have played for the U.S. We feel that there's been a very good level of discussion and follow up with him, and it's all in the idea that he's going to play a role for us."
Bradley didn't address Bedoya's situation in much detail, but it did not seem to be a club-vs.-country situation based on Bradley's comments. Bedoya's exclusion at the benefit of Rogers is a bit puzzling considering Bedoya's current form for Orebro and Rogers' stable-but-not-stellar form for the Columbus Crew.
Bedoya just scored his fourth goal of the young season over the weekend and has put in time in attacking and defensive central midfield roles as well as out wide.
As for Bunbury, who Sporting Kansas City coach Peter Vermes said last week would be on the U.S. roster, Bradley overlooked him in favor of Chris Wondolowski. Bradley praised Wondolowski's current form and said that "he has scored some very good goals" and "seems to be a player that gets a couple of chances every game."
Bunbury has struggled in his last few MLS outings, but he has provided a spark when given the opportunity in past national team friendlies.
"Teal is a young striker that we certainly see a lot of potential," Bradley said. "We've had a good opportunity to work with him in some camps and just felt that this time, in terms of our whole roster, I didn't think it was the right time for him. I don't think hes been as sharp as we would like so far in the season, and I think that's a sign of him continuing to mature and grow."
To a lesser extent than the aforemnetioned trio, the exclusions of Charlie Davies, Herculez Gomez, Jay DeMerit and Edson Buddle also turned some heads.
Bradley didn't make it seem like Davies would have been selected even if he was at full fitness, which he currently is not. He injured his hamstring in D.C. United's May 14 game against Colorado and is doubtful for this Sunday's match at Portland.
"We've certainly seen a lot of progress from the start of the MLS season until now, and we're excited about that," Bradley said of Davies, whose six goals are second-most in MLS. "You look at strikers, and you want to see goals, and obviously he's done well to convert in some goal-scoring situations, but in terms of his all-around contribution to the team, I think he's still working his way back."
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Which omission surprised you the most? Who do you think should be on the squad that isn't?
Share your thoughts below.
When does the USMNT start training? This week or next week?
Michael Bradley shouldn’t be on the roster he hasn’t played in months?
Jose F. Torres is one of the few midfielders we have that does not play the “panicky style” that the U.S. is known for/plagued by. We could use his poise and he would benefit from the extra time to gel with the other players.
Is that a question or a statement?
If it’s a statement, you’re an idiot.
And if it’s a question, you’re an idiot.
Either way, it’s not looking good for you.
hhaha nice. @JJ
What does “shoe-in” mean? OK, I know I’m a jerk.
JFT is very poised but his best position is defensive midfield and he has trouble, with the speed of the international game.
Everyone knows he’s fantastic on the ball; what we don’t know is whether he can do anything dangerous with it.
Bradley sounds pretty confident that Chandler is going to play for USMNT in the future. I’m crossing all my fingers and toes that he’s right.
There are two downright bad surprises: neither Robbie Rogers nor Jonathan Bornstein is anywhere near the level of the rest of the team and should not be involved. The other surprises are in the “not good” category.
Robbie Rogers is the most frustrating player I’ve ever watched (and I’m a Crew fan). He has so much skill but zero confidence when he gets near the goal. He will dribble past two defenders and have a one-on-one with the GK and just stand there waiting for someone to tackle him.
I’m glad to see sportswriters starting to be a little more critical of Bradley’s decisions. That’s good for the sport in this country. I should have known it would take the exclusions of Bedoya to finally bring about some criticism though haha.
…..and who are you to question the Great Bob Bradley.
I know, right? Before all his Swedish goals, this board was full of Bedoya hate…
Mark my words, we will pay dearly for this admission. And so will Bob, when Gulati calls him up after a dismal Gold cup (Mexico vs Canada final).
Not cool and hilarious at the same time!
THIS!! Btw, didn’t I see you comment on spankwire too? haha.
Yeah, like I said in the previous thread about the surprise exclusions, Rogers has all the tools to succeed, he just needs to learn how to use them. Bob Bradley gave him a specific role, well-defined role in the 2009 Gold Cup, and while his quality didn’t always shine through, the role he was playing was vital in terms of presenting a tactical advantage to the team. Having a winger like him stretch the field and provide crosses gave the USA width, an outball on the wing, and a keep the defense a bit further back due to the threat of his pace.
Bob does a really good job of putting players in roles that suit their strengths, and he generally breaks down these roles very well, which is why Rogers’ performance at the Gold Cup was so mixed. It was tactically important, but his quality didn’t always show.
I just don’t think we’re anywhere near as bad as people are saying. Bradley is putting tactical value before technical quality. Rogers does a better job of providing width and crosses than Bedoya, Adu and Kljestan offer the back up attacking midfield options, while Feilhaber is a linking/passing midfielder who is a spark off the bench.
for the most part im ok with the selections. MB, RR and JB are questionables. but we all know that MB would be called in even if he had a broken leg! i like wondo and rimando getting the nod they deserve to be included from their current league play. i wonder how pissed teal is and if hes wishing he chose the maple side
so funny, and on point too.
No matter who plays for the USA at this Gold Cup, we must not lose to Mexico 5-0. That was just embarrassing, and I don’t care that we used a B team last time.
Torres looked very panicky against Slovenia. And was subbed off at the half, let’s not forget that. I’m sure he will get a call up in the January camp if he is on form though.
+1,000,000,000
Why all the the hate? All this over three “controversial” picks? They probably won’t make the 18 for the game so chill out. Focus on the exciting inclusion of
Freddy. I for one am excited to see how far he has come.
I want to see Agudelo and where Dempsey plays. Bring it on GC!
People just don’t like Bob Bradley and desperately want to see him fail so someone else can come in and do a worse job.
I have this recurring image of Robbie Rogers grimmacing, teeth clenched, hands on his head after he just missed a goal he should have made. He seems to do that a lot. Average MLS player; definitely not international caliber. How long will Bob Bradley be putting him in the roster to see if he has changed?
How is Michael Bradley questionable?! Some of these comments are so brutally stupid that I want to believe the commentators are just trying to get a rise out of people. Unbelievable.
All in all it’s a fine roster I think, and really leaving off guys like Mix, Bunbury and Bedoya won’t affect us much. Even CD9′s exclusion is totally understandable. We’ll be fine, and most likely make the final against Mexico anyway.
That said, Chandler is the one exclusion we’re really going to miss, as his versatility on the right side is huge in a multiple game tournament situation. Also, it’s never a good situation when a federation backs down to the wishes of a club for a major international tournament. Personally, I don’t like the precident that sets. Friendlies are one thing, and it is important to maintain good relationships with clubs, but this tournament is huge (qualifies us for the Confed Cup if we win) and Chandler would’ve played an important part in that. The kid is 21, he can handle an off season tournament. I’m just saying I don’t see “he needs rest” being a viable reason if this was Germany calling him up…
I do (as always) have an issue with Bornstein. Even the previous “who else you gonna call in” argument doesn’t hold the same weight when JB hasn’t played significant minutes at left back since the end of the last MLS season. At this point, throwing him in there is just as much of a crapshoot as anyone else and if that’s the case, I’d rather take someone who’s actually been playing consistently (Pearce, hell even Bobby Convey).
And, how pissed is Brad Davis right now? In my opinion, he was much more deserving of a call up based on current form than Rogers. Say what you want about Rogers adding tactical flexibility, the bottom line is the kid has never been able to put it together
consistently in a Nats uniform and his play this season hasn’t been stellar. I really feel like this is a case of Bob having Robbie Findley syndrome again, where he falls in love with what a player could be, instead of realizing what he currently is. RR may capable of providing a tactical advantage, but what good does it do once teams realize he’s just going to give the ball away or put crosses out of bounds?
I am not buying the Chandler story, he could have come in and play some minutes. Something stinks and besides BB, I think is the Nuremberg and the Germany coach. I can’t beleive BB rolled and played dead for them.
Freddy Adu is playing in the second division of Turkey. What has he done to merit a call up
Remember the days when some people couldn’t really see who was better– Stu Holden or Robbie Rogers?
Some of us could see how Stu Holden was better, especially when it comes to reading the game and aggressiveness, but as far as technical ability goes, Rogers is high up there.
Seems like his biggest weakness is confidence and/or heart.
The guy has two excellent feet, he’s fast as heck, but rarely do you see him ever use these attributes effectively.
I honestly think he’s perfectly content being Justin Mapp 2.0.
Rogers is a fine option off the bench in a Concacaf competition. He played great in the 2-2 game against Costa Rica that clinched the first place for the US in the WC qualifying. In fact, he assisted Bornstein on his stoppage time goal and created some chances.
yea, you gotta love the Bradley haters, they aren’t really big on this thing we call “logic.” they bash Bedoya everytime he has a mediocre game for the US and clamor for Bradley to never call him up again, now they go nuts when he doesn’t get a call and scapegoat the coach. shut. your. mouths
My only complaints are with bedoya and bunbury being overlooked. I would like another younger player included on he backline, but no one is really jumping out at me. If I had my druthers, I’d have Bedoya for Rogers and bunbury for adu. The reason I say Adu is because whenever he’ll be coming off the bench, he’ll have no defensive responsibilities and will essentially just be an offensive player, akin to another forward. If that’s the case, I’d rather have a forward who, so far, has partnered well with Agudelo and himself has shown glimpses of being a very solid option for the US.
Mistakes: Adu,Rogers,Wondolowski
Instead it should have been: Bedoya, Bunbury, Gomez
I hope bradley doesn’t get the chance and gets sacked after not winning it!
Havent you heard? Michael Bradley is too good to play club soccer. He is all about the National Team.
I agree. Unfortunately in the few (very few))chances he’s had with the Nats his play has not impressed. He’s had good moments and average moments. Not stellar. Why is that? Is it that we don’t have enough guys like him? It should be added that not many Americans have impressed the last four (or eight) years when playing for the country.
On a different topic, that is quite a humble strike force. Maybe Bob’s surrendered and decided our strikers can’t score anyhow, so why bring more than 3. Hey, why even bring 3? Hopefully Agudelo can fulfill his potential. Hopefully Jozy can continue to push around Concacaf minnows. Hopefully Wondo was a risk worth taking. But to me it seems Bob is relying the rest of the team to carry the scoring load.
But the blame isn’t all on Bob–what is Bradenton/Gen Adidas producing? Over a decade without one quality striker. That is poor.
I’m so unexcited to see this manager at the helm for another World Cup.
Lol good 1.
I’m glad I finally have a chance to communicate with the real Sunil Gulati. Please step down.
Mexico will win, why does it matter, U.S. always Fails at the final hurdle anyway. US teams in this sport never have that determination to seize the moment, they always piss themselves in any big moment.
hopefully bradley will lose his job after this!!!!
+1
Why is his comment stupid? MIchael Bradley hasnt played in 4 months, Bornstein is sitting behind Torres Nilo the guy that is in Mexicos Gold Cup Roster.
Teal wasnt called in because he hasnt been top notch, but Michael Bradley and Bornstein have?
Bradley could shut everybody up by assembling and coaching a team that performed at a high level, walked onto the pitch prepared for the opponent (and didn’t give up goals in the first 15mins. of every game), and proved to the fans that he knew what he was doing as a player manager and a tactician.
I defended Bradley until he selected Robbie Findley for WC10 team–and then started him . . . twice! You can’t defend the indefensible.
We are not bad. And a lot of what is being discussed is on the fringe. The starting 11 likely remains unchanged. Still, Bradley has made such incomprehensible decisions in the past (Findley? Rico Clark v. Ghana) and had such poor results, often saved by miracles (LD v. Algeria; lest we forget the last Confederations Cup was two games of abject failure rescued by a miracle) that he’s really opened himself to the criticism.
Especially in ’07 Gold Cup against Mexico in the final!
The team we field against Canada will be better than the team we fielded against Ghana.
All this bellyaching is ridiculous.
We DON’T see Redcardo Clark. We DON’T see Findley. We WON’T see Bornstein starting. We don’t have JFT losing the plot and refusing to follow BB’s gameplan. (NOT a JFT fan.)
We don’t have Holden, DeMerit and Chandler, but we’re certainly better than last summer.
Blaming Jose Paco Torres for being timid in the midfield is against Slovenia is BS!
Put it in perspective.
It was his first game starting with the full nats starters (if not his first start) and it was against England in the WC!
Can you really blame the guy who’s previous experience had been a sub off the bench late in games and half of those subs as a winger??
That was Bradley’s F-up. It should of been Benny.
Bradley has been arguably the best, most consistent performer for the national team for the past few years. His lack of playing time shouldn’t be much of a concern considering A. The fact he is constantly training with the club and B. the manager’s decision-making track record is sketchy at best. He deserves to play and more likely start. I don’t know what more people want from him, especially at 23-24 or whatever he is.
I dislike Bornstein as much as the next guy, so I’m not arguing with anyone about that. I understand he is one of our only options and thus gets consistently called in, but it still bums me out.
I think people just get too fixated on potential. I am all for trying new people out, being introduced to some new faces, etc, but people call for some dudes they have never seen play based on Ives or Avi or whoever posting that they scored two goals in League One some weekend. Bob and co. obviously get paid to watch these guys in action, and thus are better positioned to make personnel decisions. Plus, you know, they’re professional soccer coaches who know what to look for and are aware of the best ways to make the USMNT successful. I’d love for us to play beautiful, free-flowing soccer, but we just aren’t there yet. Bob and co. have figured out the best way for us to be successful for the time being.
Dont get why people are so incensed about the roster. The starting lineup will actually be an improvement over the starting lineup in the first world cup match. any striker for Findley, Jones/Edu for Clark. Also some solid sparks off the bench Feilhaber, Agudelo, maybe Adu. Rogers is really the only WTF for me. Good points above about what he can bring tactically, but I think Brad Davis can do the same things and is in better form/more deserving.
Can we just for once actually get behind the team? I absolutely agree there are surprises/disappointments with this roster, but this is our team. I don’t want to go all Norman Dale here, but this is your team. A ball hasn’t even been kicked yet. Let’s get behind the boys that are wearing our colors.
Say what you want about his selection not to bring Bedoya, but as far as we know he’s a only a right sided winger and doesn’t have nearly as much experience on the nats level as Robbie, who can play on both sides of the wing at least.
If Chandler had been available, maybe things would of been different.
Hilarious, sir. Hilarious.
I like Herc but he was on a 10 month scoring drought at the club level until scoring 4 this past month… that is not enough to push him ahead of Wondo who has been en fuego for a year and a half now without any serious dip in form. Wondo over Herc was absolutely the right call.
Does anyone think that there is a legit shot that Bradley get fired before next world cup? It’s a tough thing because I really want him gone but because we are playing bad or getting bad results. Should have nixed him after the world cup.
Idk about hilarious, but its quite sad you can’t critique a simple post if you have a disagreement about it.
Typical Ives fanboy.
He’s not average, at all. He’s got serious skills and pace. You’re right about the misses, though. If he can ever figure out his shooting touch and balance, he could be one of the best players we’ve ever had. Without Holden in the lineup, Rogers is the guy to provide that spark off the bench.
I keep waiting for that to happen, and I guess Bradley has the same hopes.
Is Jonny Bornstein Bradley’s “California Son”? Did he grow up playing with Mikey and we just don’t know it yet?
And just to clarify my response to your comment, Tim, here are a couple of points. For starters, JFT’s start against the Slovenes was NOT his first start; his first start came against T&T in 2008. Also, “It was his first game starting…(if not his first start)”. Ha. Second, the really funny part of this post was that you tried to justify JFT’s poor performance in the Slovenia game by saying it was against England.
I think we are Slaw. Just a lot of analysis going on. Doesnt mean we arent behind them.
The thing that concerns me is I feel that this is too good of an opportunity for Chandler and others. It’s a great stage to continue to ease him in with the team. I know there’s a lot of time left until WC Brazil. Still, I guess Im of the opinion that every little bit helps. I’m behind our guys though. Stage has been set. Really want to see Lichaj, Altidore, Agudelo, Adu, Jones, and Ream do well.
Can someone please define what “A” international level is per this: link to fifa.com, page 68. Thanks.
Oh, and how was I being an Ives fanboy? I said nothing about Ives and made no declaration about who I’m a fan of. You’re getting funnier by the minute.
I never thought Bunbury was a real option, and until this week, I didn’t think Ale Bedoya would be on the team, either. I was a little surprised at Wondo’s call, with Buddle and Gomez available. Wondo is not even two years younger than Edson, and not even a year younger than Gomez — so, I don’t buy the idea that age would be a factor. However, Wondo is showing well right now, and he will be in midseaspn shape — something the others cannot say.
I’m liking the addition of Adu — Gold Cup is just the right kind of format and level for him to shine. Rogers — I’ve always thought he had gobs of potential — maybe more so than almost anyone else in the pool — but it never fully materializes on the pitch. Perhaps this will be his moment to shine. Surely, if Holden were there, Rogers would not be, but he is a better fit for Holden’s slot than Bedoya…at least based on national team performance. On the other hand, I was hugely impressed with Ale’s full-stride back-heel pass for an assist this weekend. Our side lacks the creativity and skill he showed there.
Now that Adu is at least playing some, he may have been called up for Jozy more than anything. I’d love to see if those two can regain the chemistry they had playing for the U-20s. They really read each other well and each made the other more dangerous.
Played a major role in his team’s success this season, leading to them battling (uphill, after today) for a promotion to the first division.
2nd division Turkey may not be the most competitive league in the world, but Adu’s technical skills can bring something to the USA it lacks otherwise. He merits the call-up.
And, technically, the USA doesn’t really piss itself in big moments – it has piss in cups thrown on it by Mexico’s fans.
ROFL @ JJ!!!
Also, did you not notice that in the last 2 friendlies, even with little club playing time… MB consistently outplayed J Jones? … and that he WAY outplayed M Edu?
Open your eyes.
No, i justified it by stating it was his first start with the with the full first team, and apparently his start since a qualifier in 2008? and on top of that, for bob bradley to do so on such a grand stage as the wc in the first game against such a strong opponent as England, when previously building up to the world cup, he had been used solely as a sub building up to the wc was a terrible decision.
You keep deflecting from any point i make with this silly notion that things are funny. Are you retarded? If you are, I apologize Alex. Laugh make Alex happy? Good Alex. Laughing good.
I am not saying he is a bad player or did I say that?
All I am saying you cant be picing players based on club form (Teal) and ignore the fact that Michael and Bornstein have not played in 4 months. That is all I am saying.
You definitely have a point. But the issue with it is that Bradley has managed to prove himself on the international level. Bunbury has flashed potential (and believe me, I’m as excited about it as anyone,) but potential + not doing so wonderfully for his club means he didn’t make the cut this year.
Again, I have no argument for Bornstein, other than the fact that he somehow still remains the best option we have. Which is sad.
Did you miss his World Cup debut? I really liked, and still like, his play, but wow, did you see his World Cup debut?
i just lost faith in BB…. good stuff ives, best site going
Very funny Tim! JFT didn’t start against England! I’m not deflecting from your point, I’m refuting it! We were talking about his start in the Slovenia game and you’re talking about England when he didn’t even start against England! Who’s retarded now, Tim? I accept responsibility for starting this flame war but you’re coming off as stupid because you’re wrong. But keep on calling me retarded. It’s ok, Tim. We’re not all blessed with correct information and logic skills.
Jose didn’t play against Ghana. It should have been pretty obvious by the distinct lack of midfield ball control. But who’s really watching anyway?
Forwards: Jozy Altidore, Robbie Findley
Midfielders: Clint Dempsey, Ricardo Clark, Michael Bradley, Landon Donovan
Defenders: Carlos Bocanegra, Oguchi Onyewu, Jay DeMerit, Steve Cherundolo
Goalkeeper: Tim Howard
That’s the lineup from the England game. Someone’s name is missing….
Listen, I hope that we play the final against Mexico for a thousand reasons! Just the fact that Mexico is a fun team to watch and play against. The levels of both teams is the highest in the region and I enjoy seeing Hernandez, Marquez, Dos, Guardado play!
We all want the final to be of the highest calibre, and these are the two teams that can guarantee that. And playing a team like Mexico and beating them in important matches has obviously helped us improve our level of play and our composure versus powerhouses in countless ways.
This US team should make the final and possibly beat Mexico, if not Bob’s gotta go!
Michael Bradley has retired from club soccer to focus on his National team assignment.
Putting aside the debate over fringe players, is anyone else concerned Dempsey’s going to be a no-show after a long, grueling EPL season? And without Chandler or Holden on the roster, there’s really no strong back-up for him on the wing. He’s going to have to log a lot of minutes over the tournament.
We’ll if we lose the Gold Cup or don’t make the final, Martin O’Neill and Carlos Ancelotti are available.
Fulham starts Europa league qualifying June 28th they’ll find out at the end of the week whether they are going or not. Dempsey hasn’t had a break in awhile.
hahaha chuck, i second that.
bob consistently plays borenstein who continues to give up goals, leaves out future stars such as bunbury, fails to cap mix and chandler in tournaments that would tie them to the states… there’s no need to defend bradley at this point. he continues to make idiotic roster decisions.
He hasn’t really had a summer break since 2008, 2009 Confeds Cup, 2010 World Cup, 2011 Gold Cup with Europa League qualifying right after Gold Cup, along with playing every game in the EPL, at what point do you burn out?
Bradley has different rules for different players. Davies is excluded because of fitness all around contribution. Please explain Mr Bradley how exactly Mikey is in shape and contributes when he cant make the bench?
Double standards right down the line. He’s such a fool
i watched quakes v Revs and saw Wondo play well. I saw nothing in Feilhaber. Adu I sort of get.
Rogers = wtf.
Bedoya is on a Holden path but Bradley I’ll be the last to notice as usual.
JFT and Baby Bradley play dissimilar andnon conducive styles so he’s out.
I’d believe Chandler needs the rest and it’s wise to give it, if Bradley wasn’t such a hypocrite for all the Gold Cup is important talk only to leave him.
Bradley could also shut everybody up by fielding a team of world class Americans, led by our high quality strikers…
Except that we don’t have them yet.
While the American game is improving the simple fact is that we have few excellent internationals. All you have to do is look at the clubs of everyone in the nats’ pool. There are some decent sides, for sure, but there are still few Yanks playing in Champions League (for example).
I’ve been frustrated by many of Bradley’s moves, too, but in general the USMNT will improve when the quality of our players improves.
Right…. Robbie is gonna light Spain up.
I’ve already got tix for the final and hoping for USA vs Mex, even though it will be an away game for the USA at the Rose Bowl.
Dos a cero, anyone?
The only players people are whining about being left off the roster probably would not see much or any playing time except for Chandler (and Davies, if he recovered from the hamstring injury.
This gold cup is not a camp about bring along young players, it is the regional championship with bragging rights and a spot in the confed cup at stake. So Wondo over Bunbury makes sense, Wondo led the MLS in goals last year and is 3rd this year.
No Torres (who, btw still plays less than 90 minutes for Pachuca most of the time) has not really clicked with his US teammates.
I am surprised by Adu’s inclusion, I hope some scouts are claiming his soccer brain has grown.
Sacha and JB can fill in at multiple spots, but does anyone really think they will be starting?
Rogers can add a touch of speed on the outside and can cross well.
I am surprised no Bedoya, is suppose it is a tactical choice.
It will be interesting to see how much time MB gets. He did make the bench in the last 2 or 3 Villa games, but made only cameo appearances.
Bradley picked a team of parts he thinks will fit together. That is often as much a gut feeling about players’ personalities as much as it is about choosing complementary and consistent playing styles. So far Bradley’s tenure has shown him to be a guy who can get (or choose) players to work together. The style is scarcely like Barcelona’s, but he does not have much of that kind of player at his disposal. I suspect even he would tell you that he might have left off some more talented players in order to make sure he had all the roles he thinks are important covered with a starter and a sub. There are no rules for picking players other than question “will he improve the team?” Style, excitementor personal connection have nothing to do with it, only the coach’s assessment of the important question.
Bwahaha +1
normaly I’m optimistic but this lineup is really going to take sometime to digest. Bornstein? the guy has been a failure in MX. in his last showing as a sub he got yanked back out after 20 minutes, yet BB rewards him with a call. I want to see Borstein birth certificate, it probably says Bradley somewhere.
Hindsight is 20/20, but it would take a blind man to see that if the USMNT does not make the Gold Cup final or is knocked out in the group stage or an early knockout round, we may get to see Bradley naming his last team.
Roger’s is a better fit for Holden’s slot? since when Rogers plays CM? oh, you think Holden’s slot in the NATS is a wide right? You are drinking to much water from BB’s well.
Alright my mistake. Slovenia then. What’s changed? This is me trying to talk about PACO. My original post was about PACO. Not England. I clearly state Slovenia in my first sentence, and a typo and my part led you to believe that I was trying to mislead posters to justify Paco’s play.
Your obnoxious post distracted me from my original intent, which again, was to justify Paco’s poor showing against Slovenia. Again, Slovenia, England, interchange the two and it has no bearing on any of my points about paco leading up the wc and his first start with the nats sr. team
apparently since 2008
Why is he questionable?! Let’s see… Maybe the fact he’s played about 30 minutes total the whole second half of the EPL season! Don’t be an idiot and understand the facts. I like MB but if fair is fair you’d be bitching if BB brought in anyone else who got the type of minutes MB has played. Let’s have someone START ( which he will) on our national team who hasn’t made the bench for his club team in more than 50% of the games this season. MB is a good player, but is not match ready. People like you are the reason our program is where it is! You should learn a bit more before you speak.
What is the real shock here people? Chandler begged off and is either headed to Deutschland or taking a summer nap. Bedoya, really? Most unimpressive and his time with the NATS thus far. Burnbury has been quiet in MLS whereas Wondo has shown a lot the past year and a half.
Bornstein? Everyone knows the LB pool has been shallow for years. What else do you expect?
I say Adu surprises and quite frankly, the team needs him as Bradley, Jone, and Edu roughly equate to the same player.
this makes me laugh
Wow. You are not very smart.
I agree with this. Getting bad vibes on this one.
Deutschland, Deutschland, uber alles.
Bad vibes on this one as i seriously doubt US would roll over for Nuremberg unless Chandler was in agreement. I hope I’m wrong.
I believe his passing percentage was still the highest on the team in his world cup debut.
dangit. that was a response to and for JFTorres in the slovenia world cup game. I believe in him still.
Closer to our C+ Team – And we still made the Final
Like in say at the 2002 World Cup? Oh wait…
Is there a quality National Team podcast out there?
With this explosion of activity there seems to be an opportunity for regular debate
regarding the team.
WFD is pretty awesome but I think there’s room for a dedicated podcast even if its only 1 or 2 hours per month.
PS – is Bob Bradley freaking crazy with this lineup? I think the world of Jozy but he falls into the category of strikers haven’t been scoring lately. I have questions from the top of the lineup on down but I know these have already been asked
I was shocked when I first saw the roster, especially with the exclusion of Chandler but I’ve calmed down somewhat. While I’ve been stoked that Bedoya has really been on fire, and though I don’t rate Rogers at all, the truth is that neither one was going to play an important role right now for the Nats in games that matter. Bedoya is clearly on the rise, but people should remember that he hasn’t really shown very strongly at the international level yet. Long term it’s not such a bad thing that he keep getting big minutes in league play. Were talking backups here, both of whom are probably behind Benny on the depth chart anyway. The Chandler omission still stings a bit, but Dolo is peaking and was fantastic in the World Cup. Neither of these omissions means that we are any less capable of beating Mexico.
As for Freddy, for a player who hasn’t played much over the years, keeping him active with his season ending is a good thing. Don’t tell me he can’t shred against Guadaloupe.
jj just owned u
I want Chandler to be a man and come out clean with the real story and his intentions, this is not good enough for the the die-hard U.S. Fans.
Definitely some vibes here. Though, can’t say I blame the guy. If you had the choice of playing national team soccer with the US or Germany…
LOL!
I’m sorry, but Rogers and Bornstein do not pass the laugh test. There is no rationale you can offer that makes them stronger choices than other MLS prospects or international omissions. I appreciate being conservative and going with known quantities, but this is myopic and gives two players who are really struggling to find form and club playing time way more credit than is merited.
I actually think he is spot on. Leaving Bradley off the roster would have sent a clear message that you don’t get called up if your not playing for your club. Double standards.
ADU?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
Are the US Gold Cup Games being televised?
Your totally right. Coaches at the highest level should restrict themselves to a single criteria when selecting their team.
Still can’t believe bradley started jozy against spain back in 09. Such an idiot/hypocrite.
For the surprise inclusions, I’m okay with Adu and Wondo. I don’t think Adu will get many minutes and it’s nice to see him back in the conversation. Wondo has been playing well, so I’ll agree he deserves a shot.
As for Bornstein and Rogers. Forget about it. I’m sure Bornstein was added to replace Chandler, but I would much rather see Pearce. Or, I would have liked to seen an additional midfielder or striker added. Between Dolo, Boca, Lichaj and Spector, the truth is we have decent enough options for fullbacks.
As for omissions, I obviously questioned Chandler but that one has been explained. Teal, not too surprising since he’s not doing much. CD9 had bad timing with an injury, so I’m ok with him being left off. Gomez should probably be on this squad, and if not him, than Buddle. The biggest omission for me is leaving Bedoya off. I know he hasn’t played all that well for the Nats, but I would rather take him over Rogers. Bedoya can play on the wings and would likely come off the bench anyway. He’s in better form and will likely be a part of the Nats for quite some time.
Yeah. Better to send messages than put the best team forward. That’ll learn’em.
The Chandler situation is troubling. Regardless of his concerns about fatigue, or his club’s concerns (threats?), anybody who claims he is “proud” to play for the US should jump at the chance to play in the regional championship, especially where he is likely to see significant time. I hope this is not Rossi 2.0. The other possible explanation — that he was afraid to anger his club — is just as worrisome.
Bornstein’s selection left me dumbfounded. If regular playing time at your club is as important as Bradley says it is, the selection is perplexing at best.
Rogers over Bedoya is inexplicable.
I don’t have a problem with Bradley being on the roster….Will he start? Probably, now that may concern me.
What scares me is seeing Bornstein on the roster. With all of his (lack of) playing time in Mexico….he could only get worse…if that possible.
Exactly, both the US goals came off of Robbie Rogers crosses.
Couldn’t agree more. Forward
selection is questionable. Once
again midfield will have to produce.
For more in depth coverage stop by:
link to phillysoccerpage.net
05/24/analyzing-the-us-gold-cup-roster/
Exactly. I’m looking forward to beating mexico. Not sending a message to fringe players.
I actually think it’s the opposite. They play pretty well in big games, but then play poorly against teams they should beat, i.e. Spain in the Confed Cup, and Slovenia in the WC.
I don’t know who has been admitted, unless you mean Adu or Rogers. Or, maybe you don’t mean “admission”. I shouldn’t make fun, since I’d love to get to know a biglustythonggrl.
FYI I did some research. Since 1990 USA record vs. Mexico
13-8-8
Enough said
Simple fact of the matter is EVERY viable attacking/penetrating ball the U.S. had versus Slovenia came from the foot of JFT! Now I have watched that game very closely on more than one occasion, and I would encourage anyone who doubts what I am saying to watch it again! The problem most fans/BB have with JFT is he can actually possess the ball, be composed, and have the vision to just knock it around until an attacking opportunity arises. His exclusion is a mystery, so is Bedoya, Bunbury, Starikov,Whitebread, Davies, and Diskeruud! Onyewu, Rogers, and Bornstein aren’t worthy of inclusion…but we all Know BB likes “his” boys!!
Outplayed jones? Maybe your overlooking the very first touch of the Argentina game when he kicked it straight out of bounds from kickoff!
I don’t like the Chandler situation at all. Something just seems fishy. They don’t want a 22 old playing an int competition? He’s tired? Dudes 22 and didn’t play half the season with the 1st squad.
why he is an idiot. I think everyone here are entitle to their own Opinion, I like M. Bradley but why is he call up when he hasn’t been playing at all. Ok if Bob wants him on the team I hope he is leave him on the bench but NO I don’t think he would do that.. But I guess u smart and u might know the truth don’t u? just be respectful to other and let them express their thoughts.
Howard
Dolo, Gooch, Goodson, Boca
LD, Bradley, Jones, Dempsey
Jozy, Juan
I’d be ok with Edu over Bradley, the only reason I didn’t go with him is because I feel Bradley is better at getting forward. But the truth is, I’d be fine with Edu starting in his place.
I’d like to see two forwards, but I could see Bob going with the 4-2-3-1. I just feel our strikers aren’t exactly good in that formation. If he does that, I’d like to see Edu and Jones staying back, Dempsey and LD out wide. Since Holden is not here, that would leave Sasha, Benny or Adu in that third center mid position.
I would also be ok to sit Juan and put Dempsey in his place in a 4-4-2. Then either have to play Benny, Rogers or Adu on the wing.
Rogers is a one dimensional player, easily shut down by even the most mundane of defenses. refer to the last Gol’ Cup. he did nada.
I disagreed with the PACO sub at half then, and now. he’s a young player. wasnt used to the Slovenia size(plays in Mexico afterall) and was doomed to “fail” because Bradley hadn’t given him the experience with the 1st team that he needed. – but WTF? he got the result against Slovenia. but then decided Ricardo Clark is the way to go against Ghana???? Bradley is a very frustrating coach.
Bradley has been VERY quick to pull Torres, yet keeps going to the Bornstein, Rogers,etc well, WAY too often.
I DON’T BLAME CHANDLER. He wants to PLAY in a real competition and the GC ISN’T one. If the US was in Copa America then I think he’d be there.
I thought Torres’ USMNT debut came in a start vs. Cosat Rica in WC qualifying down there on that concrete Saprissa field
Torres “got the result” vs. Sloveni? all THREE US goals came in the second half after Paco was subbed off
good post
Gooch, DeMerit, Jozy…all have been called up, and started, even though they were not playing for their clubs much. there are more examples
you’re talking about Mexico
Gold Cup is not a real competition…where do you haters come up with this drivel?
where the heck is Gringo Torres???
Gringo should have been getting minutes to begin with
Lazy Out-the-door needs to be benched until he gets PT…..Edson , where are you????
Look how long it took them to fire Rognen at the U20 level. My guess is Bradley does not get fired unless he screws up in a big way like Rognen did by not qualifying for the U20 Wolrd Cup.
Chandler’s situation is more in the diplomacy realm than soccer. Get over it! Chandler will do what he wants, but I expect he will be involved in US W.C. qualifying.
Bornstein has been on the field for some memorable US wins, vs Spain, Algeria, Costa Rica, he is even a hero in Honduras. I still think he is not a natural defender and makes too many mental errors, but he is versatile (he is probably a better midfielder) and he has done enough good in the past to manage to hold down the spot at left back against some strong teams.
Bedoya has performed well lately by all accounts, but I was not impressed the last couple times he was in a US uniform. Rogers has more speed and this team is not the fastest in the world so he is included for his ability to stretch the defense and make good crosses.
Adu, I dunno, simply have not seen him play in over a year except for highlight clips (by definition, he looks good there).
I expect you are right Bradley will start Gooch in the Spain game. He needs to see how Gooch responds. I expect though that Ream will take over a middle spot by the first CG game. I am worried about Boca’s speed on the outside against Spain than might bite us.
The Spain game will be about testing the defense. I am not sure Jones, who gets cards faster than Rico Clark is the right answer against Spain. Spain is a tough test, I hope the US can get a better than failing grade.
Scoring goals, forwards, there is no perfect, proven, reliable solution. I do want to see Wondo against some good teams. Of all the choices, only he and Clint have been scoring goals for their clubs with any regularity. (Donavon is likely to remain a midfielder, but is the other goal scorer). Juan and Jose may not have the grit needed yet, both are damned with the “potential” descriptor.
He was injured in February.. if you want to call that a break
Smart choice on Rogers. Is is a proven late game sub. He was excellant as the late game sub is the one that played against Costa Rica in the WC Qualifier. I thought is was a mistake that he did not make the WC squad because they were missing that type of sub in several matches.
Keep in mind Rogers is left and right footed. He can play either wing, striker and has also proven he can play as a left back in a pinch (Olympics-game against Nigeria).
Bradley knows what he is getting from the player.