Stock Up and Down for MLS Players Ahead of World Cup

Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The annual January camp is over, culminating in a USMNT victory over South Korea yesterday. So, now that the “all MLS” camp is through it’s time to look at who’s stock is rising and falling for a World Cup spot.

I’ll start with those who improved their stock yesterday.

Stock up: These players have put themselves firmly in the discussion for a World Cup spot, and possibly a starting spot.

Chris Wondolowski: The San Jose forward scored both goals for the US yesterday. Wondolowski had 5 goals in the Gold Cup over the summer and continued his scoring tear yesterday; given the form of Jozy Atidore and even Clint Dempsey, Wondolowski has scored himself into the forward discussion for Brazil.

Graham Zusi: His play making ability set up both chances for the US yesterday. Zusi, who is a regular for Sporting Kansas City, played on both wings and did not disappoint. This was the first time he and Landon Donovan were on the pitch together for the Yanks, and they created multiple chances. The question Klinsmann faces now is whether or not Graham Zusi should be in the XI in Brazil with Landon Donovan.

Michael Parkhurst: The newly-acquired Columbus right back played on the left yesterday, and had a great game. He showed attacking ability by linking up with Landon Donovan for great one-two play, and the ability to defend one-on-one in tricky situations. Left back is a difficult position for the USMNT, as DaMarcus Beasley is a regular winger for his club team. So Michael Parkhurst could have put himself in contention for the left back spot with his performance yesterday.

 Stock down: These players are in danger of being displaced from the XI, or falling out of the picture altogether.

Brad Evans: Our worst fears came to fruition yesterday when the Sounders midfielder/defender was beaten multiple times at the right fullback spot by speedy Korean players. Evans stepped in when he was needed over the course of World Cup Qualifying, but cannot defend against players with pace. Once again right back is tricky for Klinsmann– with only a few reasonable choices nobody has firmly grasped the position. However, with Geoff Cameron consistently in the XI for Stoke in England, Evans could have been displaced at right back.

Mike Magee: The MLS MVP for Chicago finally got the chance to put on the national team jersey, but missed out due to food poisoning. This is absolutely heartbreaking for a fan favorite who could have put himself in the World Cup picture with a big game yesterday. Magee may have to wait until the next WCQ cycle to prove his worth for the national team.

The next USMNT friendly is March 5 in Ukraine, and should have mostly European based players. However, a few MLS-ers should be included, and maybe a surprise from the January camp as well.