I had just assumed that Etch would continue playing for a few more years. But when reading the latest Chris Bergin article about Gazza on USsoccerUK.com, it had this quote attributed to Etcheverry: The article mentioned Etch stating this earlier this week, but I hadn't heard that quote before. If true, then it sounds as if Etch was at least hedging his plans for the future, even if the future wasn't next season. Here's a link to the article, Etch's stuff is near the bottom: http://www.ussocceruk.com/modules.p...le=article&sid=35&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0 What do you guys think?
I think the reason that we have so many United fans wondering about his retirement is because there are two distinct large growing factions on the issue. The first bunch hate Etch. They more then likely have never really cared for him. They always thought Harkes was better and perhaps could just never get past the mullet... who knows. Etch's slow down since his MVP season has really made it easy to be in this faction and it grows each season. I am personally an Etch fan but even I wonder what has happened to the Diablo of old that could take people on off the dribble and make them look like fools. Etch is still the only player i have ever seen take on three defenders in the corner and still come out with the ball all by himself. The fact is he doesnt seem capable of that any more and it helps his legions of detractors (or more fairly doubters) grow larger. The second group, (where i reluctantly count myself) hope he doesnt go, BUT... IF he did... it would be kind of nice to see him go out relatively on top. Not slagging around like that jerk off Valderrama as a complete shell of a player. Or worse traded of to some ************ team like NE... Its a nice clean break that allows him to leave us on HAPPY terms as the greatest United player ever. Not a classless ass like a Diaz Arce... If Etch simply retires he leaves us with a good feeling and we need that from the player that really built this franchise.
I think El Diablo's days on the field of RFK are coming to a close. He won't be forced to retire anytime soon -heck he is the only member of the team at the all-star game - but he will eventually be placed on the bench (not this year and maybe only maybe next year)...when that time comes, I think Etch will bid United Adieu, and that'll be that...judging by the quote, I'd say we have maybe one more year left with #10 and his talent. What's everyone else think?
All I hope is that he announces it before he actually does retire, so we can give him the send off he definitely deserves.
IMHO, Etch's selection to the All Star Game was simply a tribute and a ploy to get more of us United supporters there. He still has some magic, but a lot less than three or four years ago. I also hope that he announces it in advance so we can give him the royal sendoff that he deserves. -Tron
What Etch will do for next season is THE question for next year. All other decisions really play off of it.
Hmmm... This sounds like something I would say RIGHT before he goes out and scores a goal and wins the MVP award in the Allstar game!
I loved etcheverry at his best. But it is time for him to go. Or perhaps move to the bench or something like that. (coach the youngster and be a sub). He no longer serves any purpose in our team. He is slow, can't run. or are going to have him here until he is 50 like valderrama?