Does anyone think that soemtime over the cycle, playing in a shortish confederation, we could eventually go to a "su[ersized" front line with Conor Casey and Edson Buddle up top. Then Donovan could drop into the midfield. Something like: ----------Keeper RB-Pope-Gibbs-Boca -----------Reyna LD---------------------DMB -------------JOB Casey-----------Buddle or: --------Keeper RB--Pope---Gibbs---Boca ----------Reyna BC------------------DMB -----------LD Casey-------Buddle The question is whether or not Buddle is fast enough to play a speed forward (aside from whether or not he can play at this level period.We don't know for sure yet, although I think so.). A big lineup could lessen the counterattacking pressure on the opponent's backline and allow them to roam forward. On the other hand, if this lineup has enough of a credible counterattacking threat, it would give us a BIG advantage on size and make it difficult on shrimpy regional backlines to stop. It also gets another big body on the field for defensive set pieces, which means that our short midfielders would be a little less exposed in that area. Personally, I think this lineup is worth a try in a friendly, although I don't know if it would work. I'm curious about your thoughts.
Rather than just saying no, let me actually give my thoughts, like you requested. In my opinion, the idea is not bad, it's the choice of Buddle. I would like to think that we only need one target guy up front, and the other really should be a poacher/ runner, like a Twellman, Wolff, LD, Adu. I really am looking forward to being able to see Cooper play, because I'm not that familiar with his skill set. Sounds to me from these boards, that if he were to play with Casey, that may get close to what you're suggesting. Two big target guys that can also play with the ball at their feet and score. Anyone who has seen Cooper play wanna comment on my speculation? Again, I haven't seen Cooper play, so this is only my take on it.
Lets not mention Adu in the same breath with this cycle of qualifying, as he cant even hack it in MLS yet. I think it would be a bit foolish for him to suit up for the national team at this point.
In my opinion, it's best to have a tall, target player combined with a fast quick player running off of him. Two "supersized" players up front gives a team a predictable, long ball attack, and unless they have great dribbling skills as well as height, I think a smaller, faster forward should be in there. The only way I see two supersized forwards starting is against short countries where 2 tall forwards could be intimidating, or against big, slow teams who would match up well. Bruce is doing a good job using his friendlies to try out different forward combinations of forwards who work well together. Target forwards: McBride, Casey, Rasov (uggh), Buddle Speedy forwards: Donovan, Wolff, Mathis, Twellman, Find out which combo works the best and use it through qualifying. My .02 cents
If you moved Donovan up more so that he was really playing as a third striker, then it might work. But that's probably too attack-minded for Bruce. Maybe against a poor, and small team.
I don't quite get why you'd use Casey instead of McBride. Anyway, at home against a team you know is gonna play 9, or even 10, behind the ball, sure. Because that would negate anyone's speed.
I'll be happy to agree to disagree with you on this. Keep in mind that Bruce has dropped a few hints that he has a chance to be there if we are in Germany '06. Remember, Bruce's requirements for camp are simple. 1. consistent playing time and performance in MLS. 2. impressing in camp It's a long time until '06 my man, that's all I'm saying. I think he'll be there.
If the two big guys have the pace and skill of a little guy, then sure. But two McBrides, that just wouldn't work. If we had a Theirry Henry, would he be a "target" forward or a speed forward?
Size doesn't matter to me. I don't care what their size is as long as the frontline works well together, make effective runs, can pass, and most importantly put the damn ball in the back of the net!!!!!
It'll work if we have great midfielders and the forwards can participate in the attack instead of just expecting service. But right now I don't know if we're good enough at holding the ball and controlling the flow of play to use to big forwards up top.
I was very impressed with Connor Casey in the match against Poland. He moved well off the ball, held the ball well and distributed well. I think he has the potential to be the USA's #1 choice ahead of McBride. Casey is a more complete player. He has more mass, better footskills, and can pass the ball. I think that against some teams an all big striking line-up would work wonders, thats assuming the USA team learns how to cross the ball well. how about this midfield/forward setup RM: Stewart LM: Obrian DM: Reyna CAM: Donnovan CF: McBride CF: C. Casey Just look at Germany vs Saudi Arabia to see exactly what C. Casey and McBride would do to the garbage teams that the USA will see in qualifying if they had good service from the wings. Plus if the USA needed some speed at the end of the match they could take McBride or Casey out and move Donnovan up and put Beasley in midfield.
I maybe a newbie, but i don't think Stewart is even an option for us. Maybe in the first couple games of qualifying. But beyond that I don't think he'll be with the Nats anymore. Maybe put Landon on the right and and O'brien to attacking mid. And you gotta have DMB on the left. But with your theory of sending in balls from the wing I guess Lewis is the better option.