Player Profile: (4) Pablo Mastroeni

Born: 29th August, 1976

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

Height: 5′10″

Weight: 170 lbs

Caps: 46 (never scored)

World Cups: 1 (2002)

Clubs: Colorado Rapids (2002-present), Miami Fusion (1998-2001)

College: North Carolina State

Positions: DM (strong in the tackle, good passer), CB (has played their for Colorado, but won’t play there this summer- see Arena quote)

Highlights:

• Won the Supporters Shiled with Miami in 2001.
• Colorado Rapids captain, he probably deserves a better team.

Lowlights:

• Miami Fusion folded
• Had his fair share of injuries.

Arena says: “Last year was not a good year for him in the league. Too many injuries, too many suspensions. Started again this year, talked to him about it a little bit. He’s playing out of position with Colorado, so it’s difficult. He’s a player we’re going to have to remake in camp and get him back at midfield.”

Assessment:
Might pick up the ocassional yellow, but is a very reliable tackler. Probably the most natural defensive mid on the roster. If he didn’t suffer the odd lapse in concentration he’d me Claude Makelele. With injury doubts around Reyna and O’Brien, Mastro will definitely see plenty of action.