edelanoThis is my way of getting the best players on the field at the same time while following what JK has been showing in his first three friendlies. Donovan in the middle-which makes Holden out of play on the RW. A pure D-Mid, Edu. A linking player through the middle-I have Bradley instead of Torres. And, one forward.
Bradley instead of Torres because Bradley still brings a more physical presense and in my opinion, is a better defender. Jones hasn't shown exceptionally well for the USMNT.
Edu has the best defensive abilities from any CM.
Dempsey on the left so he can cut in and shoot/support Altidore. Altidore dropping back so he can be supported by Dempsey/Donovan/Holden. No forward on this team can play a lone striker position and excell. They need all the help that the other players can give.
Holden can suffice on the wing. I know he has a great tackling record, but JK has Donovan center. Holden also has previously shown well for the USMNT at RM/RW, during WCQ.
Donovan and Holden also need to be on the same side-either right or left really. If Donovan and Dempsey were on the same side and both attacked, there would be a major hole for a counter-attack or would make the defensive stretch way too much. Holden would be seemingly be more willing and better at holding his runs to be cover for Donovan.
[Solid lines are the main/first run for a player and dashed/short lines are the secondary options]
13.09.2011
AndoI would switch Holden and Landon, honestly. Has Stu played wide, ever?
15.09.2011
edelanoYes, I would too, but JK said he wants Donovan in the middle... So, that's what I put.
You could also put Dempsey in the CF role and Shea on the left.
15.09.2011
AndoI hope Klinsman doesn't try to force the idea of Donovan as a 10 - It's just not who he is.
I actually wouldn't mind seeing a 4-4-2 diamond with Dempsey and Shea wide, Bradley/Edu in the Holding Role, Holden at CAM, and a strike partnership of Altidore and Donovan.
15.09.2011
flash1316I would switch Bradley and Edu. Bradley is at his best sitting in front of the back four. And Edu plays the center mid who goes forward for his club, Rangers.
21.09.2011
G.K.Lack of Lichaj is dissapointing
21.09.2011
