Player Profile: (9) Eddie Johnson

Born: 31st March, 1984

Hometown: Palm Coast, Florida

Height: 6′ exactly

Weight: 180 lbs

Caps: 18 (9 goals)

World Cups: -

Clubs: Kansas City Wizards (2006-present) FC Dallas/Dallas Burn (2001-2006)

College: -

Positions: CF

Arena says: “The bang that was created by Eddie Johnson was more media than actually bang on the field. In mop-up duty against Panama he had three goals. Granted, we think he’s a great talent and a great future. But again, for a young player it’s really difficult to handle success at an early stage. Now the issue is getting him right because he’s not in good form right now. I’m optimistic having him for a month in camp. That’s why he’s on the roster. It’s on potential. The performances he’s had to date in the league haven’t been good.”

Assessment: His international record looks better on paper than on grass. His goals have all come against weak opposition and he’s yet to make an impact against quality opposition. Even more worrying, he hasn’t rediscovered his form since returning from injury. But he does have all the weapons (pace, finishing, strength, aerial ability) to really make an impact at the World Cup if he can find some confidence. Looked to be finding his touch in the friendlies against Venezuela and Latvia, but didn’t find the net.