Today, US Men’s National Team coach Bob Bradley released his 23-man World Cup roster for South Africa, and boy was I disappointed.
Most choices were expected: DaMarcus Beasley and Maurice Edu showed enough in warmups and training to seal their spot on the team. Jonathan Bornstein was chosen over Heath Pearce…in the battle who was “less worse than the other.”
However, the most chocking, disappointing choice had to be the elimination of Brian Ching, and the inclusion of both Edson Buddle and Robbie Findley.
Brian Ching is one of the most criticized players on the national team roster. American’s concept of forwards is one of a quick, fast, powerful, goal scorer. However, Brian Ching isnt this kind of forward. Brian Ching plays more of the “target man” on the team…a big target who receives passes at the top of the box. He then uses his large frame to keep possession while the rest of the team comes up in support and uses his great passing skills and vision to distribute the ball. It’s a very unglamorous position, but a very important one, and a believe that every coach should reserve one spot on their roster for a large target man.
Robbie Findley’s inclusion means that Bradley valued his speed more than Ching’s possession abilities. Perhaps it was a move to help replace Charlie Davies, who used his speed to stretch out the defense. Whatever the reason, I really hope that Bradley knows what he’s doing.
Other than this…I have no other criticisms of this roster. It’s a strong team that can do a lot of damage in the World Cup.
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