Has anyone been over to see the tryouts this past week. I know the one this past weekend was an "invite only", but I've seen nothing on it. I was told they are going to look to spend some money on an experienced keeper and keep a "current" as a backup then find another as a third string ? Any thoughts ?
I did hear that they will get a couple of players from the invite-only group. Check out the video on the Timbers website. Also heard that Mike Pertz (6'5" defender) looked good andhould be called into camp. He trained with the club late last year and was impressive. He is currently playing with a PASL-Pro club, the Ohio Vortex.
I would be very, very surprised if they decided to bench Steve Cronin this season after the nice year he had in 2009. I'm also sure Steve knows that this season will be his tryout for the #1 in 2011. Given the amount of good GK talent who have already gone through Portland and may either be out of contract (Ray Burse) or possibly expendable and available in the expansion draft (Josh Wicks, Brad Knighton, Josh Saunders), I don't think GK is an immediate need at this time. As for a third keeper, they have on occasion carried 3 keepers, but obviously that person rarely travels with the team or even gets playing time in exhibitions and friendlies.
Not as far as I'm aware. His name is not listed on the current roster. That's not saying that it's impossible for him to come back, but at this level 1-year contracts are far more common than 2-years or more.
You guys have picked up a great DMF in James Marcelin, true physical presence and has a nice longshot. He also brings CCL and international experience.
He was definitely brought in with an eye towards 2011 and the chance to be our Shalrie Joseph. We're all very excited by his signing and he had a full fledged press conference in front of PGE Park this afternoon.