Today, Jurgen Klinsmann announced his 24 man roster for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Antigua and Barbuda and Guatemala, and named to the roster was Sporting KC midfielder, Graham Zusi. Zusi had a coming out game against Jamaica at Crew Stadium last month in the USA's 1-0 win that looked to put qualification back on track. The US fly to Antigua for the first game on Friday before returning back to the States and Kansas City to take on Guatemala at Livestrong Sporting Park. Both games are absolutely huge for the US to advance as they're currently in a 3 way tie with Guatemala and Jamaica for the top spot in the group. Only the top 2 will advance to the Hex so there is little room for error in these two games.
The rest of the US roster had a few surprises, namely up top. Former Wizard, Eddie Johnson's return to form has seem him recalled to the national team in a move that isn't totally surprising given his play this season. The more surprising inclusion was that of San Jose Earthquakes forward, Alan Gordon. No I didn't misspell Chris Wondolowski, Gordon really did get the call over his teammate who very well could set a league record for goals in a season this year. Gordon also earned the call up of Terrance Boyd and Jozy Altidore who have both been playing decently in the early portion of the season for their club sides. No clue on Boyd's absence, but rumos is that Altidore's stem from a Tweet he sent out after an article where he was criticized by Klinsmann. One other inclusion I am happy to see is the return of Sacha Kljestan, who is playing quite well in the Belgian league at the moment.
Remember, watch party Friday at Johnny's at the Power and Light disctrict, the qualifier is on BeIn Sports, so check to make sure you have it before rushing home to watch on your couch. Then the big party comes to KC after that. Open training session at Livestrong Sporting Park on Sunday morning, American Outlaws pre-party on Monday the 15th, and then the game on the 16th should be great.
I notice the USMNT is hurting with players injured or sick. I really think they should call in quick fixes with Sapong and Sinovic. But Klinny probably won't. Too bad he doesn't know what he has.
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