Training Camp Winners

February 20th, 2006 | by: Daryl |

OK, so the winter training camp is over. Three good results and one not so good (hallo Canada) proved that MLS players can play international soccer. But which individual players can look back on a job well done?

Taylor Twellman was the big winner. The hat-trick against Norway proved he could score at this level, the assists against Japan proved he was more than just a poacher.

Clint Dempsey drew comparisons with Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard from the boss. A bit extreme, but the rap-tastic midfielder emerged a more complete player than many realised.

Todd Dunivant was probably the biggest surprise. From MLS also-ran to possible World Cup left back via some solid performances in the problem position.

Kerry Zavagnin wasn’t even in the original 30, but the injury to Mastroeni saw him come in and really impress. With all the injuries at defensive mid, he’s in with a shout this summer.

Ben Olsen is also benefitting from those injuries in midfield.

Eddie Pope proved he wasn’t the new Jeff Agoos.

Jimmy Conrad did nothing wrong.

Chris Klein looked a little lost at right-back aginst Japan but redeemed himself with a great attacking performance against Guatemala.

Pat Noonan impressed down the left. Bruce says he has “a great personality” too, which must be a good thing.

Eddie Johnson proved his injuries are nothing to worry about (we hope) and finally started scoring again.

Bobby Boswell came into the squad late and won’t be going to Germany this summer (unless he’s booked a vacation). But he’s marked himself as one for the future.

Chris Rolfe didn’t spend all that long on the field, but like Boswell he’s made progress and Arena (or his replacement?) will be thinking of him post-Germany.

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Mick

That’s a lot of winners. Not sure if Zavagnin, Olsen and Noonan really did all that much other than not suck. I also think Pearce should be on the winner list.
daryl

It is a lot of winners, and obviously I’m not saying all the winners will make the World Cup roster, but I feel like all the guys on the list helped rather than hurt their cause. Zavagnin, Olsen and (to a lesser extent) Noonan are in a good position because of injuries to other midfielders more than anything else, but Arena has said positive things about them in recent press conferences. And I still think Pearce will be disappointed because he’s come out behind to Dunivant.
Dan

Despite Sunday’s game, Klein looked so terrible against Japan that I’d be worried if he gets on the field in Germany.
Eric

Good list. Not sure about Pope and Noonan. I think they did not make up enough ground for their there past perfoprmance. Noonan may have a chance but I think centerback is to packe for the risk that pope may be.