Choosing unwisely? - The Fans Speak Out

Soccer Digest, Feb-March, 2002 by W. Keith Watkins

Bruce Arena should be bold and follow the example of the English who are building a team not for the 2002 World Cup, but for 2006. Arena should use 2002 to accelerate the development of youth. Players such as Jeff Agoos, Carlos Llamosa, Eddie Pope, and David Regis figure to be outclassed and embarrassed in the World Cup by European and South American defenders, anyway. Regis doesn't even play left back at Metz. Steve Cherundolo, Danny Califf, Carlos Bocanegra, Jim Curtin, and Ryan Suarez should be developed instead.

Plus, what has Arena been smoking? Choosing Carlos Bocanegra over Danny Califf for the national team makes no sense. Califf is quicker, tougher, and possesses much greater offensive skills. Califf is clearly America's best young defender. Besides, his blue hair would look good with the national team's new blue jerseys.

W. Keith Watkins

Atlanta