Arena: Adu’s A Long Shot

USA Today carried a story about Freddy Adu and his chances of making the World Cup squad yesterday. Bruce Arena, probably sick of being asked the same question, gave them this none too surprising statement:

“He’s a good young player, but he’s in a little over his head at this level at this point in his career. In terms of the physical requirements, he’s not up to par in some respects. The game’s a little faster than he’s used to … He’s not a starter on his club team. And you’re asking where he stands on making a World Cup roster? Without me giving you a prognosis, I’ll let you figure that out. Is he a long shot? Is he a definite? I’ll let you figure it out.”

There’s nothing there to surprise MNT fans, but it demonstrates the national media’s apetite for Adu. My hope is that the teams World Cup performance (with or without Adu) will generate some positive publicity, then Adu’s introduction to the team post-World Cup will prevent interest from dissipating altogether.