(Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for New York Red Bull)
With the Confederations Cup just a week away, there's a lot of chatter going around about the U.S. Men's National Team.
A 23-man squad is already in South Africa, preparing for that tournament few consider worthwhile. And while there will be talking points to glean from going up against the likes of Italy, Brazil, and Egypt, another tournament awaits in July.
The Gold Cup, CONCACAF's regional championship, kicks off on July 4 in the U.S. Because of the Confederations Cup, it is thought that a side heavy on the MLS side will be selected.
While there will be an assortment of foreign based players in the Gold Cup squad, as in years past, a number of in form MLS players will also get the call. Here's a look at eight MLS players who are worthy of a look from Bob Bradley and his coaching staff.
Stuart Holden, Midfield, Houston Dynamo
Of the players here, Holden is perhaps the most deserving to get into the squad. The midfielder/forward has been a revelation in the past few weeks, helping alleviate the absence of Brian Ching.
Just look at the goal he scored against Chicago on June 5. A dangerous run into the box to lose his defender and calmly finish past Jon Busch.
Despite his strong start to 2009, Holden has yet to receive a full cap on the international level. An injury in January prevent him from taking place in the U.S. friendly against Sweden. He does bring some international experience to the fold, having played in the 2008 Olympics for the U-23 side.
Even if he's over looked this time around, it probably won't be too long before he gets that first cap.
Kenny Cooper, Forward, FC Dallas
Always a fan favorite of players they'd like to see in a US MNT jersey, Cooper should be a shoo-in to make the team. After all, if he can't get a call up for the Gold Cup, he surely must be pondering what is keeping him out of the U.S. getup.
While Cooper has been capped four times, scoring twice in those appearances, he's yet to gain a meaningful call up. In 2008 many fans were clamoring for the hulking forward to get a chance to prove that he has what it takes as the U.S. offense floundered.
A Gold Cup audition could be just what he needs to prove that he can succeed on the international level.
1 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete