U.S. Soccer clarifies Chandler situation

Photo by John Dorton/ISIphotos.com

When Timmy Chandler was replaced on the U.S. Soccer roster ahead of Wednesday's friendly against Mexico because of fitness issues, it disappointed plenty who wanted to see Chandler have the chance to go up against El Tri's speedy wingers, an asset that the United States did not have during this summer's CONCACAF Gold Cup final.

When Chandler went on to play 90 minutes in his club's season-opening game over the weekend after being replaced on the U.S. roster by FC Dallas defender Zach Loyd, it naturally raised some suspicions even though Chandler has repeated his allegiance to playing for the United States.

U.S. Soccer clarified the situation over the weekend, releasing the following statement through the men's national team blog on its website:

"In his first five days on the job, U.S. head coach Jurgen Klinsmann had been speaking to as many players as possible prior to naming the squad and had not been able to reach Chandler. Following Thursday's roster announcement, Klinsmann spoke with Chandler and FC Nürnberg manager Dieter Hecking about Chandler's call-up for the Mexico game.

"After discussing Chandler's fitness following a minor injury and the importance of trying to earn a regular starting spot in his first full Bundesliga campaign, Klinsmann decided to allow Chandler to remain with his club rather than make the long trip to Philadelphia, and understood that he would likely play in the team's opening match of the season against Hertha Berlin. All agreed that Chandler would report to the USA's September friendlies against Costa Rica and Belgium."

----------------

What do you think of the explanation? Do you think this will finally put to rest any conspiracy theories that Chandler wants to play for Germany?

Share your thoughts below.