First, this formation is actually much like the classic 4-4-2. The difference is to emphasize one of the two central mids as a defensive mentality, and one with an attacking role. Shea and Donovan would operate as true wingers, staying wide to maximize space and take advantage of their speed. Both are at their very best in full-stride, taking on and running at defenders.
Michael Bradley is the key here. His role is to get forward and attack but also to serve as the primary distributor. Play will funnel to him to control and slow the pace. With his high technical skills and improving decisions, he will be relied on to do most of the creating - playing into space down the wings or killer balls to the forwards.
Gomez has proven he'll do what it takes to create chances. His work-rate is top notch and, until he struggles, deserves the nod. Dempsey is a dynamic player also proven to find the net and is a must start. Boyd and Jozy will get long looks as substitutes, as they both have bright futures with the USMNT.
Williams played very well as USA hosted Jamaica in Columbus. And while Mo Edu and Jermaine Jones have been serviceable, Williams earned himself another look. I would also like Michael Bradley in this stopper/holding midfield role if we can identify an alternative central attacking player. Zusi, perhaps?
Back four are pretty straightforward. Boca and Dolo are aging, but seem to be doing so gracefully. I disagree that Lichaj, Goodson and others need to gain experience as the future; chemistry is good, but overrated. The beauty of a national team is that they can get first team experience and improve with their clubs. When they overtake the veterans (or the vets decline) simply make the change.
Tim Howard in goal. No explanation necessary there.
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First, this formation is actually much like the classic 4-4-2. The difference is to emphasize one of the two central mids as a defensive mentality, and one with an attacking role. Shea and Donovan would operate as true wingers, staying wide to maximize space and take advantage of their speed. Both are at their very best in full-stride, taking on and running at defenders. Michael Bradley is the key here. His role is to get forward and attack but also to serve as the primary distributor. Play will funnel to him to control and slow the pace. With his high technical skills and improving decisions, he will be relied on to do most of the creating - playing into space down the wings or killer balls to the forwards. Gomez has proven he'll do what it takes to create chances. His work-rate is top notch and, until he struggles, deserves the nod. Dempsey is a dynamic player also proven to find the net and is a must start. Boyd and Jozy will get long looks as substitutes, as they both have bright futures with the USMNT. Williams played very well as USA hosted Jamaica in Columbus. And while Mo Edu and Jermaine Jones have been serviceable, Williams earned himself another look. I would also like Michael Bradley in this stopper/holding midfield role if we can identify an alternative central attacking player. Zusi, perhaps? Back four are pretty straightforward. Boca and Dolo are aging, but seem to be doing so gracefully. I disagree that Lichaj, Goodson and others need to gain experience as the future; chemistry is good, but overrated. The beauty of a national team is that they can get first team experience and improve with their clubs. When they overtake the veterans (or the vets decline) simply make the change. Tim Howard in goal. No explanation necessary there.