Daves On Soccer

With action gearing up for the US NATs, what changes should we expect in the new squad? Here are some predictions:

OUT
Several players have already announced their international retirements: Claudio Reyna, Eddie Pope, Brian McBride. Of those who haven't, I see these as the most at risk of not earning more caps.

• Kasey Keller - So many times, the savior of the U.S. back line, Keller's just a bit too old to be the starter in South Africa '10. And with so many talented understudies- Howard, Hahnemann, etc.- it's time to pass the goalkeeping torch.


• Gregg Berhalter - Always a fringe member of the Nats, a younger crop of defenders should displace him from future squads.


• Eddie Lewis - Guilty of some slack defending against the Czech Republic, Eddie's crossing abilities aren't enough to earn him a recall.


• Josh Wolff - Unless he can catch on with a European side and prove his fitness and form over a few season, it's time to look elsewhere for front line help.

IN
What new faces should the NATs incorporate? How about these:

• Jay DeMerit - It's been a long road to overnight success for Jay, but the Watford defender has earned the chance to win a spot in a new look back line.


• Freddy Adu - The phenom's been maturing, both personally and professionally, these past few years and might be able to provide that bit of vision and creativity the Nats have always lacked.


• Marvell Wynne - A man among boys at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship, Wynne has quietly been improving his game. He still needs experience at the highest level, but his natural abilities shouldn't be overlooked.


• Jonathan Spector - Spector's been gaining invaluable experience in the EPL for the past few seasons with Manchester United, Charlton and, currently, West Ham. He should become a fixture in the back line.


• These youngsters should get some looks also: Eddie Gaven, Santino Quaranta, Preston Zimmerman