Nice article by Allen. When he called some of the few MLS games (Open Cup) on FSW he really seemed to be in tune with US players and US soccer in general. Also it's nice to have word on Armas.
Am I the only one for whom this statement really jumped out? Lately, the biggest gripe I hear from MLS players and insiders is the shocking lack of professionalism exhibited by some players. There’s an alarmingly inadequate number of “real” pros that know how to handle themselves, and without guys like Armas it could be a bigger problem in the future. What does he mean my "real" pros? What are the problems that these "unreal" for lack of a better term, problems are causing? What are they doing, or not doing, that makes them seem unprofessional? What is the root of them not being professional enough and what can be done about it? And, who is that is doing the complaining about them?
i noticed that as well as i read it, i thought it was mostly about players not putting in the extra work... hitting the weights and what not outside of the team practices and games dunno
My guess. Most of them are being what they are... kids. There's still too much room in MLS for players who have some talent, but no work ethic. Over time those guys will get pushed out.
First thing I thought when I read it was that he must be referring (at least in part) to Clint's run in with the Bruce last year.
Pretty well written stuff - especially from a TV guy. Man - poor timing for Armas. Its too bad to see bad things happening to good guys.
I immediately thought of Ray Hudson talking about Justin Mapp specifically and the general DCU climate when he first got there.
profesionalism From what I have gathered from two MLS sources the lack of professionalism is two things. The first is work off the ball and covering. Minor example, just watched a game in which Alan Shearer cleared a defensive header in the box. Now, I am not saying you will find Shearer defending in his box the entire game. But when time and situation dictates, he is there. Apparently US players have not gripped the concept of work and thought envolved in keeping team shape. The second, which ties closely with the first, is many players do not understand the commitment needed to be able to do what is necessary on game day. Being a DCU fan, it was amazing last year watching them play numbers down on defense so often. Especially when they seemed to have so few numbers in attack. Where the hell was everybody? Oops, I guess that is another thread.