After naming a well-balanced and widely expected squad, Jurgen Klinsmann spoke with members of the media on a conference call shortly after the news broke.
Answering questions on a variety of topics, Klinsmann discussed notable inclusions and omissions from his 23-man squad, as the U.S. went for a large mix of players from across Europe, Mexico and MLS.
Below we have compiled some of the top stories to come out of the Gold Cup roster announcement, with Brek Shea and Carlos Bocanegra on the outside looking in.
But there are good reasons for that… as Klinsmann explains.
So without further adieu, here are the thoughts of the US national team coach as he aims for Gold Cup success on home soil this summer.
Carlos Bocanegra: One of the biggest shocks from this Gold Cup roster was the fact that Boca was left out of the squad. But when asked by reporters, Klinsmann stated that Bocanegra was only left out of the squad because he is finalizing a move to a new club team. The Glasgow Rangers defender will soon have a new side and Klinsmann said he left Boca out so he can figure out his future. Do you buy that? Or is Bocanegra’s storied international career all but over?
Brek Shea: The Stoke City forward will not be included in the Gold Cup squad but he will be in the camp leading up to the tournament. Shea will play against Guatemala in a friendly on July 5 (aired live on NBC Sports Network, 11pm ET) before returning to complete preseason with Stoke, per an agreement with Mark Hughes. Shea will be desperate to reignite his US career. This is his chance to shine.
Oguchi Onyewu: Almost seemed like a last chance saloon for ‘Gooch’ as Klinsmann acknowledged that his injury issues have taken their toll and that Onyewu must prove his fitness and perform well in Gold Cup action. After returning to Sporting Lisbon this summer, after a disjointed year on loan with Malaga, Onyewu knows his must perform well this summer as younger center backs have excelled. Some good displays could see Onyewu seal himself another move or perhaps edge back into the plans at Sporting.
Other notes: Klinsmann also stated that Stuart Holden is “really close” to full fitness and hailed his influence on the squad and developing the younger players. Also he said the Juan Agudelo must show “more consistency” when asked about the New England Revolution forward. Klinsi also revealed that Omar Gonzalez, Matt Besler, Graham Zusi and other MLS players who played in the World Cup qualifiers could join the squad for the Gold Cup knockout stages, per agreement with MLS clubs.
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