The Generation adidas targets

 

                                                                              Photo by ISIphotos.com

While the list of MLS Combine invitees has been released, you cannot get a real sense of how the 2009 MLS Draft might shake out until you see the Generation adidas players that will be in the mix. All indications are that the upcoming Generation adidas class could be one of the strongest in league history.

SBI has learned the names of several top college underclassmen that have been targeted and approached about signing Generation adidas contracts. Among the players are standout defenders Ike Opara (Wake Forest) and Omar Gonzalez of Maryland (pictured), two players considered high-first round draft pick prospects and two players who will be on display this weekend at College Cup in Frisco, Texas.

Here is a list of names of players who have been approached and are considering signing Generation adidas contracts, which would make them eligible for the 2009 MLS Draft:

2009 Generation adidas prospects

• Ike Opara, defender, Wake Forest

• Omar Gonzalez, defender, Maryland

• Steve Zakuani, forward, Akron

• Peri Marosevic, forward, Michigan

• Michael Stephens, midfielder, UCLA

• Kevin Alston, defender, Indiana

• Jeremy Hall, midfielder/forward, Maryland

• Baggio Husidic, midfielder, Illinois-Chicago

• Stefan Frei, goalkeeper, California

This is not a list of Generation adidas players, but a list of the top players approached with Generation adidas contract offers. The full list of Generation adidas signings may not emerge until early January.

For now, what do you think of this crop of players? Are you liking the way the 2009 MLS Draft could look? What player would you like your team to land in the first round?

Share your thoughts below.