GK: If Howard is on the roster, he will play. He's on, so he'll be between the pipes.
DEF: This is the same defense that played well against Jamaica in Columbus. This is a solid back four, and is also capable of providing support for the US going forward, with Johnson and Cherundolo.
MID: Williams was tremendous as a holding central midfielder, and it's a role that he should reprise for the US going forward. Bradley's return, also in central midfield, should open up the game a little more for the US, since he can do so with his passing and ability to keep defenses honest from distance. Zusi played great against Jamaica, and since Donovan isn't available to play in that spot, it should be Zusi's to lose. There aren't a whole lot more offensive midfielders on the roster, with Torres not called and Shea out with injury, so Kljestan should be asked to come in and play on the left.
FWD: Obviously, this is where the controversy has been. Dempsey is not a true striker, and prefers to create from the wing. Having a player who can hold the ball and allow the offense to move up the field alongside him will be critical. Gordon's selection is controversial (and I disagree with the choice to leave Altidore out), but since he's here, and since that is Gordon's game, he should be given the chance.
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Josh Muhlenkamp
about 12 years
GK: If Howard is on the roster, he will play. He's on, so he'll be between the pipes. DEF: This is the same defense that played well against Jamaica in Columbus. This is a solid back four, and is also capable of providing support for the US going forward, with Johnson and Cherundolo. MID: Williams was tremendous as a holding central midfielder, and it's a role that he should reprise for the US going forward. Bradley's return, also in central midfield, should open up the game a little more for the US, since he can do so with his passing and ability to keep defenses honest from distance. Zusi played great against Jamaica, and since Donovan isn't available to play in that spot, it should be Zusi's to lose. There aren't a whole lot more offensive midfielders on the roster, with Torres not called and Shea out with injury, so Kljestan should be asked to come in and play on the left. FWD: Obviously, this is where the controversy has been. Dempsey is not a true striker, and prefers to create from the wing. Having a player who can hold the ball and allow the offense to move up the field alongside him will be critical. Gordon's selection is controversial (and I disagree with the choice to leave Altidore out), but since he's here, and since that is Gordon's game, he should be given the chance.