The right back spot has become a strength for the US national team, with Jonathan Spector and Marvell Wynne holding down a grip on the position for the near future. But depth is a good quality to have. With that in mind, here are the top five right back prospects:
1. Jeremy Hall, 20, New York Red Bulls
He is been forced into the Red Bulls starting lineup due to an injury. He has had some shaky moments, but overall has looked like a promising prospect. He has a good size and speed, but needs to improve on his technical ability. He can also play in the midfield and on either side of the pitch.
2. Sean Franklin, 24, LA Galaxy
He was the 2008 MLS Rookie of the Year and was the lone bright spot for the Galaxy defense, where he played in the middle. However, he projects to be a right back at the national team level. An injury has set him back, but he still has to be considered a quality prospect.
3. A.J. DeLaGarza, 21, LA Galaxy
He is another Maryland product who has also been forced into a starting position due to an injury. He is capable of pushing-up into the attack and has helped the Galaxy turn around a leaky defensive unit.
4. Tyler Polak, 16, US U-17 National Team
He has showed well for the U-17 team and will have a shot at landing a pro contract after the U-17 World Cup. His size is an issue, but he has plenty of time to bulk up and get stronger. He is another player who can get forward easily and is solid at isolating an attacker.
5. Tony Beltran, 21, Real Salt Lake
Hardcore fans will remember Beltran as having a shaky youth national team career, but he has quietly put together solid play at Real Salt Lake. He has recorded nineteen starts in his MLS career. He can also play in the midfield.
Honorable Mention:
Amaechi Igwe, 21, New England Revolution
What do you think of the future at right back? Do any of these players have a chance to dethrone Spector as the future first-team choice? Does this position need to develop more depth? Share below.
Check back tomorrow for the top central defender prospects.
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I’d say in the near future, the position will be held down by:
1) Spector
2) Cherundolo
3) Hejduk
Those are your three contenders for the WC squad and for the Azteca game.
After the WC, then Wynne gets some serious looks.
I am not sure if Wynne will ever feature consistently for the USMNT. He does have the blazing speed but his technical ability has never really improved.
Of these players, Sean Franklin probably has the best shot at contributing for the nats if he bounces back from his injury.
It would not surprise me if Maurice Edu was given a run out at right back. He is physical and fast and can hold possession for the US out of back.
-Tim (Soccer Academics)