I'm surprised nobody has started a thread on this unless I have overlooked it. But the latest news on the CONCACAF site is the selection of the host locations for next years U20 & U17 tournaments. Here's the link: http://www.footballconfederation.com/view_article.asp?id=2412 (I hope it works) Anyway you will note that the US is one of the hosts for U20, so this will definitely increase their chances of qualifying for the Finals in Holland '05. Look forward to hearing more comments.
That's two straight cycles we host a U20 qualifier - interesting. I'm guessing with Freddy-mania, money wins out and CONCACAF's wisdom is that Freddy will draw the best crowds in CONCACAF.
Also I didn't realize how soon qualifying will begin for U20's. It's only 1 year away, so I guess Rongen will already start formulating a core group that he will consider for selection, and I'm sure how the U20's in MLS perform this season will go a long way toward determining the team since qualifying begins before MLS '05 season begins.
The games are for Feb/March for the U-20's. Anyone want to bet that Lockhart gets the games? Mabye Cary, NC or Chareston, SC.