I did this in the Social Group, but figured it would work here, too. My choice is Ianni. Italian-American, like me * He was born about 20 minutes from me, so that's cool, too. *anyone have an idea what part of Italia his family comes from, BTW? Over to you
No idea where Ianni's family was from originally. As for me Le Toux would have have to be my current favorite, closely followed by Levesque.
Mine would have to be Zakuani because he's such a skilled dribbler and unpredictable on the ball. He's like Beasley but 5x better. Alonso was a close 2nd, but I must admit I favor the attackers more. MLS needs more players like Zakuani. I think most American viewers would really appreciate the flair and creativity he brings to the game. Of course, another player that comes to mind would be Ljungberg, but he's already an established player world-wide. It's exciting to see a young talent like Zakuani develop right here in the good ole US of A.
I have to go with Kevin Forrest, but there are 3 right behind him, and if he misses a family event he is getting replaced. just kidding kevin. The next 3 are Le Toux, Ljungberg and Keller all in a tie for 2nd.
Who? Sorry, I haven't followed the Sounders since the USL/NASL days; I'm what you would call a youngin'. Why do you like him? Is he a club hero or something?
Freddie Ljungberg is my favorite, just a classy guy with great skill and a real joy to watch. Alonso is my second favorite, followed by Montero and Marshall. My least favorite is LeToux. LeToux has this foot made of lead, and it just ruins passes. He seems to have no gentle touch for the ball or any real creativity. I do admire his strength and stamina though, but he's a style of player that frustrates me.
Osvaldo Alonso hands down. He navigates tight spaces with ease, finds the seems forward to distribute into attack, and adds a level of composure on the ball unseen in MLS. I think he's arguably the best player on the team in what may be the most crucial position next to GK. I wouldn't be surprised to see him in Europe in a year or two. Oh I forgot to mention he will go hard into the tackle and dump fools on their asses when necessary. Studs Up Sounders!! Studs Up!!
I think my fave is Zakuani with Alonso a close second. I just like the individual ball skills Zakuani has. Pretty much each time you see him just outside the area you know he's going to get by his man. Just wish he had the fitness. Alonso is a strong presence in the middle. He's the rock. Hmmm...could he play for the Nats? I also have a soft spot for Le Toux, mostly from his USL days. Yeah, he hasn't really produced much, but his work rate is unparalleled. And I don't think you can discount his unrelenting nature while pressing the defense into mistakes and getting corners, etc. Heck, just put him out there to run the bajeezus out of the defense until they can't run any more.
1. LeToux - When used propoerly (see NYRB, RSL USOC, and LA Gals games) he is very productive, he has a great attitude, he always hustles, and he is a nice guy. 2. Keller - he is the man 3. Ljungberg - he is starting to come into form and I get very excited when he gets the ball in space. Least favorite: WestSeattle for being a LeToux hater. Just kidding. I know why people might not like his game, but I have seen him play many highly productive games vs. MLS teams in his USL days and have seen glimpse of this when used as a forward or right wing.
+1. HE has just been a beast this year. after that its Roger. Plays for the shirt works his ass off and hates the TA as much as we do! Wish he'd get some minutes when jaqua tires around the 70th minute
1. Le Toux: He is a freak of nature to be able to run as long and hard as he does. Even little thinks like forcing turnovers by harrasing the others team defense is huge. Plus it helps that he was a favorite of mine for the USL Sounders. 2. Hurtado: Great attitude, makes smart decisions on the ball. Besides last game he has been very consistient. 3. Keller: He would be #1 if not a goalie. He is simply a great person to have on the team. 4. Montero: All the skill in the world. I still think we will be blown away by his skill and the number if giaks he will score this season. 5. Ljungburg: Fast and smart on the ball. IMO he is an almost perfect AM because of his skill. He controls the ball and then make the perfect pass, dribble, or shot based on what is best. He simple doesn't make bad decisions and his execution is great. Just wish he didn't whine quite so much (but I do have sympathy for him considering how hard/often he gets fouled, and for the ref fiasco of last game) One thing that I reall like about the team is that it dosen't seem like any player is a douche. That's important for team chemestry not not have that one rotten apple.
Forrest was on loan to the USL Sounders last season, from Colorado. He was let go by the Rapids in the offseason and picked up by SSFC. He is a UW product and has only seen time in reserve matches, do not recall if he was in the USOC qualifier, but I don't think he was. Sounded like a family relation from the original post, could be wrong though.
alonso is numero uno. he's the little giant. plays tough defense and creates attacking chances. he's the link between the defenders and attackers.
My two favorite are Keller and Marshall. Both of these guys are great players and they have interesting personalities too. I also played defense back in the day so maybe I'm a little biased.
Alonso is El Corazon -- the heart of this team. He is my favorite by a wide margin -- and that's saying a lot considering I am a huge Arsenal fan who loves Freddie Ljungberg and has for years.
I second this (minus the Arsenal bit); Alonso is a HUGE part of our midfield game; constantly running, always pressuring and disrupting the other team!
Agree with all on Alonso - he's the man. Steve Z looked brilliant the other night. Our most exciting attacker thus far.
Anybody who gives 100% effort, has good character, and considers oneself part of the fabric of the Sounders first and foremost is a favorite player of mine.