As an example, Arsenal (given their recent connection to Belgium) might like to have Onyewu on the bench to replace Sol Campbell – but, that’s where he’d stay with Senderos likely to fill in for Campbell in the starting XI.

People could look at the situation and say, “Hey, Gooch’s playing for Arsenal! He’s ‘top flight’!”

But, in reality, he’d just be another guy on the bench.

Much better to play at a mid-level club in a top European league than ride pine.

I agree that I’d prefer that the negotiating were finished so that Gooch’s concentration was fully on the Cup.

However, you’ve pointed out a great risk that he’s taking:

He certainly could get much more money – or at least a more prominent club – by waiting until July if he has a good World Cup.

The danger here, of course, is that the US is certainly drawn into either the toughest or 2nd toughest group of the tournament. If he were in another group (Group D, for example) he might not have quite as much to worry about.

I’ve got faith in him and the US, but I am also aware of the quality of opposition he’s facing. And he stands as good of a chance of making a mess of things as he does of improving his club situation.

I’m a cautious fellow. I believe that a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, and I think that Gooch would be advised to make the progression to Boro (or similarly placed EPL club) now. After a couple of seasons of steady play, he’d be primed to be swallowed by a bigger fish in the pond.