Friday, May 23, 2014

Parkhurst Not On US World Cup Roster

Versatile Crew defender Michael Parkhurst has been left off the final 23 man US Men's National Team roster for this year's World Cup in Brazil.

After the announcement Columbus Crew owner Anthony Precourt, whose investment in the player was likely largely influenced by Parkhurst's possible showing in Brazil, had this to say via Twitter: "Speaking for the Columbus Crew organization, we are all very disappointed for Michael Parkhurst."

Head Coach Gregg Berhalter also left a similar quote for TheCrew.com, “We’re extremely disappointed for Michael, we know what an honor it is to represent your country in a World Cup. We’re proud of the way he prepared for and approached this opportunity,” said Berhalter.

Hopes were high and chances good for Parkhurst making the team so the disappointment here in Columbus is understandable. One of the reasons Parkhurst returned to MLS was to get playing time ahead of the World Cup. It's a life changing decision but one he certainly understood the ramifications of.

It didn't take Parkhurst long after the announcement to take to Twitter; "Gutted. At peace tho knowing I did everything I could and made it a tough decision for coaches. All the best to the boys in Brazil."

Parkhurst will be available for Crew selection tomorrow but of this writing coach Berhalter said it is up to him on whether he plays or not.

2018 WORLD CUP

There is a group out there that thinks Klinsmann is leaning a lot towards the next World Cup with this selection. If that is the case than a player like Parkhurst being left behind in favor for a few younger defenders makes sense (namely John Brooks and DeAndre Yedlin). Beasley, Besler, Cameron, Chandler are likely starters and with only three games guaranteed to fit in experience, time becomes precious.

2014 WORLD CUP

Not a whole lot is expected for this year's USMNT as the group they are in is very difficult. Certainly, upsets are always part of the drama but the script rarely brings it the US way. It took a two goal comeback against Slovenia (FIFA rank - 17th in 2010) and late heroics against Algeria (FIFA rank in 2010 - 35th) just to get out of a weak group in 2010.

In the last two World Cups the US has 1 win from 7 matches, 3 Draws, 3 Loses. 7 goals and 11 against.

This year they face Ghana (38th), Portugal (3rd) and Germany (2nd).

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