Conor Doyle
Quick hits from the USMNT front:
Check out Conor Doyle
An interesting new U-20 US national team prospect has appeared on the radar recently in the English Championship. Eighteen year-old Conor Doyle signed with Derby County this August. So far he has appeared in a few games, but this looks to mostly due to injuries to other forwards. He hasn’t been part of the US set up so far, and he holds Irish citizenship. He grew up in Texas and has strong ties to the US but could choose to play for Ireland. If he continues to get playing time with Derby County, then he is sure to get a call up from Thomas Rongen. At 6”2 he could make an excellent target forward, which is not common amongst the current US U-20 squad. He could be a valuable asset in the future.
USMNT in limbo?
The US national team is still in limbo because the coaching situation has still not been sorted out. Bob Bradley has been linked with the job at Aston Villa, although he may not have a very good chance of getting the job. Meanwhile, Sunil Gulati may be looking for a more internationally recognized coach to take over the reigns of the US National team. Juergen Klinsmann’s name has been appearing again as a possible replacement. Whichever way US Soccer decides to go, the situation ought to be sorted out before the next two friendly matches slated to occur in October.
The recent game in August against Brazil seemed pointless and the players looked lethargic. The two games in October might end up being a bit of a waste unless the coaching situation has been resolved. The US will play Poland first on October 9th and then should play Colombia on October 12th. Neither of these teams is a powerhouse, but both teams are good enough to give the US a challenge.
The Soccer Power Index (SPI) rates the US at 18, while Poland is ranked 57 and Colombia is ranked 29. The US has the quality to beat both of these teams, but, considering that these are friendly matches and there is still plenty of time before qualifying begins, the US might want to give some experience to fringe players. Poland offers a perfect opportunity for this, while Colombia may require a number of regular starters.
Neither of these teams has any easily recognizable stars, but each team has quality players. The Colombian team has a number of players in quality leagues in Europe, while the Polish team has a number of excellent goalkeepers and a quality goalscorer, Ebi Smolarek. Both games should be entertaining and will be played in the US. The US will play Poland in Chicago, while a location for the Colombia games hasn’t been determined yet.
The Jay DeMerit watch
Finally, Jay DeMerit has yet to find a club in Europe and could be headed to MLS. He would add some important defensive prowess to the league if he decides to play in MLS.
That’s all for now. What do you think about DeMerit’s club prospects?
DeMerit to the Union!