Create the US lineup vs. Italy here

Alecko is a fine MLS player.

Adu should not be anywhere close to the US Nats roster. He doesn't have the size or skill yet to beat out any of the players currently there.


Now, I remember reading somewhere that the US has never won a game with Reyna as a D-mid. Additionally, he's not a good enough tackler to take on the responsibility. Put him in the central position or take him off the field. Anywhere else will be just a waste.

 

In the USA/Mexico game in the round of 16 four years ago, Reyna was out on the wing, and not in the middle.

Just sayin'.

Oh, and for the record, since the 1994 WC, the first one in which he was actually named to the roster, the USA is 1-5-1 in World Cup games in which Reyna has played. In games he's not played in, 2-2-1.

With Reyna:
1998: Lost to Germany, 2-0. Lost to Iran, 2-1. Lost to Yugoslavia, 1-0
2002: Tied South Korea, 1-1. Lost to Poland, 3-1. Defeated Mexico, 2-0. Lost to Germany, 1-0.
2006: Lost to Czech Republic, 3-0.

Final numbers - Been outscored 13-5

Without Reyna:
1994: Tied Switzerland, 1-1. Defeated Colombia, 2-1. Lost to Romania, 1-0. Lost to Brazil, 1-0.
2002: Defeated Portugal, 3-2.

Final numbers - Even on goal differential, 6-6

Again, just sayin'....

 

True enough. But, that was four years ago. Reyna, in that time, has turned into Tab Ramos 2. He's just getting over an injury, as is JOB, and I'm just not sure he has the burst of speed that a player like Convey, Beasley or Dempsey would bring to the wing play. He's just not the best option out there.

 

Going with a 3-4-3 to control the middle of the field


Back 3: Who, What, I Don't Know

Middle 4: Groucho, Harpo, Chico, Zeppo

Front 3: Moe, Larry, Curly

With a line-up like that, don't even think we'll need a keeper.