While my heart is still heavy for LD not going to Brazil, I'm happy for Run DMB who almost certainly will see the pitch in four World Cups, an amazing accomplishment. On the heels of Beaz's strong performance yesterday against Nigeria, I wanted a space to read about him, his approach to the game, work ethic and attitude. And to frame it more specifically, compare and contrast with his long-time NT teammate, LD. And a request: to the extent this thread steers clear of bashing folks (LD, JK, etc.), y'all have my thanks! ~OGx3
Not sure why Landon is in your headline if you don't want off-topic bashing, but yes on Beasley. I recall the "let's try DMB at left back" conversations, about a decade ago, to much hilarity among the skeptics. The young man put his head down, learned the position, and is a very savvy at it. Has really remade his game since he was a jitterbug winger with all kinds of energy, but lacking a bit in quality to succeed at the highest level at that position. (Although he did play great in the '02 WC as a two-way winger, making up in chutzpah and energy what he lacked in sophistication.)
Everybody has to wonder what if with Beasley. Starting in December 2007, Beasley had about 3.5 years wrecked with injuries/DNPs that should have been his prime. Bob Bradley is probably first on that list of people wonder what if, since those 3.5 years were basically the entirety of his time as US manager after 2007.
If we are talking DMB v lando, it's interesting. Their different paths since their 2002 debuts illustrate what I think is a key difference in JK's eyes. While Run DMB was sweating a trail across Europe, lando, with (far?) greater talent was "staying home". While I won't fault lando his life decisions, I can't help but think that lando talent with DMB drive, woulda made lando a mainstay at A Big Club somewhere. And he would easily be spearheading a JK 23 in Brazil. Don't get me wrong, I still prefer current LD on *this* US 23, but as a fan, I would take an LD with DMB drive on possibly *any* WC team.
I was also thinking of starting this thread. Beezer took the demotion to the backline and has played with poise, Donovan never framed himself as a striker and coach chucked him. I wouldn't be surprised to see him score and assist in the first match. Out of all the US players no one seems to show up for big matches and big moments like the Beez.
Beasley is totally underrated. This 4th Cup is only possible due to those few mins he had against Algeria. Incredible eh. At the time I had wanted Bedoya instead of Beasley.
Beaz video - P.S. For those posters already bashing LD with silly nicknames on this thread, and for those that continue to state that LD is not on the USMNT so he should not be discussed, please see the OP's request to refrain from derisive remarks. Also, remember that this is "USA Men" forum, not the "Only USA Men going to Brazil" forum. If you don't like the topic, simply move on to another. No need to leave your Gestapo-type remarks telling people to stop talking about a USMNT player.
I am so happy for Run DMB. Been following his career since his days with the Fire as a teen. His attitude should really be commended. From the very first day Klinsi went up to him and told him he would be the starting Leftback Beasley basically said "okay". No arguments. No questioning. No telling the coach he has not played that position before for the USA. Just essentially a "yes sir" and a "whatever you want coach" type of response. And it has worked out well for the most part.
Both have had excellent careers. Beasley made more of an impact in Euro club ball, and Donovan has been the driving force of the national team and the face of American soccer in general for over a decade. I don't question either player's attitude or ability. And I would feel more confidant about the U.S. at the World Cup if both were there instead of just one.
And meanwhile, as Beasley was getting limited PT across Europe, his national team form went completely to hell, while Donovan, starring in his third-rate domestic league, prospered as the team's best player ever.
I'm not sure exactly how it went down. But I'm pretty certain that DB knew it was play left back or don't be on the team. There were better options in the attacking slots and the back line was weak.
I think they're pretty similar players in a lot of respects. Both grads of Bradenton. Got the Gold and Silver Balls in the U-17 championships. In general, DMB is pretty underrated. He's reached heights in his club career that no other American has quite touched, but he's been unlucky with injuries. I'm surprised he hasn't even got a look at LM this cycle. As far as their attitude/work ethic, I'm not sure you can infer much based purely on where they played and how they approached their careers. Donovan simply was never very motivated to play in Europe. I think to make it as far as they did in US, without academies or even a domestic pro league takes a lot of determination in general.
Never motivated? What more motivation could there be than $$$$ or playing against the best in the world at your sport or simply a new locale/adventure?
Here were the results of "Landycakes" Google Search About 16,400 results (0.24 seconds) Not trying to derail the thread just answered a specific post Back to DMB, love how he has embraced the LB role for the US Nats. Have to say I wasn't looking forward to seeing him start in the World Cup, but I think he has earned it. Love how he stuck it out through the injuries to come back. The only 2002 guy left.
Yea....that's nice. I've still never read or heard any pundit or analyst respectfully use the term Landycakes (or use it at all) when regarding LD; and you haven't shown it either. Again, it's a custom term for trolls and I'm not surprised to see you trying to excuse its use.
It's not a respectful term it's an insult to him. Always has been. But it is used by more than trolls.
Okay, then show an instance that it has been used in a non trollish fashion by a pundit or analyst. I'm still waiting.