Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Rookie Life: Zakuani & Pontius

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3 comments:

  1. SteaknShakeNovember 3, 2009 at 9:56 PM

    Can Zakuani play for the U.S. National Team? How long do you think Pontius will be in the MLS. I remember watching him against Real Madrid and he looked great. I'm hoping he develops more and we see him on the National Team too. Thanks.

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  2. SterlinhoNovember 4, 2009 at 6:36 PM

    @SteaknShake
    It would take a while for Zakuani to play for the USMNT. He would have to become a citizen first or marry a US girl. His older brother plays for Congo and Steve has said that his strongest ties are to the Congo. But you never know. Here is an article with Steve's comments:
    http://sounderatheart.com/2009/01/steve-zakuani-6-days-a-sounder/
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Zakuani

    As far as Pontius goes, that's tough to say. He really did start out strong and seemed to hit that rookie wall. He seems to have some upside potential and could have a very good career in MLS. Whether or not he stays in MLS for a while will probably depend on the Collective Bargaining Agreement that is set to expire after next season. He's the type of player that we need to keep in MLS and not lose him to a Scandanavian league. Freddie Ljungberg has said on numerous occasions that MLS is on par with the Dutch League. Therefore, we just need to raise the cap and pay a good salary. Chris makes $36,000 for 09 with a guranteed amount of $66,000.

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  3. SteaknShakeNovember 4, 2009 at 10:33 PM

    I think he's too good for the Scandinavian league, I would think the dutch league would be great for his development(since they are known for developing young players) if he improves even more in the MLS, I can see him in EPL or French League. Hopefully when his CBA expires he can find a way to play in a higher level. I know what you mean about keeping him here, but I just don't see that happening until MLS pays their players better. On Zakuani... Well, it was a long shot, but I like his speed and his talent and after all that's what we (USMNT) should be looking for. I just feel the rest of the world plays so fast and we have some of the best athletes in the world that there is no reason why we shouldn't have a stronger pool. Thanks for replying!

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