Back in December I decided to take a look at a handful of players currently plying their trade in the United Soccer League Pro division. The reason being; I am frustrated with the lack of attention Major League Soccer teams pay to existing professional league soccer in this country.
The theory I'm employing is to utilize the existing footballing infrastructure that's already in place, in our very own country. It's surprising how hard that is for some to comprehend.
This post is the 2nd follow up to a group of talented players I singled out (1st post, Link). I'm still frustrated with how MLS sides largely ignore the USL and NASL but some of the guys I identified four months ago have moved "up". Others, still available for any MLS club looking to improve!
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01 : Luke Mulholland, 23 ATT MID (England)
Starting and playing with NASL side, Tampa Bay Rowdies. Hoping the NASL can continue to settle. It is very important to the soccer well being of this country. I expect Mulholland to have a great year and move to MLS.
02 : Jhonny Arteaga, 25 F (Colombia)
In the starting 18 with the NY Red Bulls now! Woohoo! Columbus had a shot at him, tried him out even. Playing behind a couple heavyweights in Henry and Cooper but I expect him to get his chance.
03 : Matthew Delicâte, 29 F (Wales)
Still with Richmond Kickers. Like a true Welshman, never stopped playing all winter. Was one of the leading scorers on his indoor soccer team during that time. I expect good things from the Kickers again this year. Crew. Sign him already.
04 : Jorge Ivan Becerra, 27 D (Mexico)
Having a hard time finding Iván Becerra right now. Last seen with Wilmington Hammerheads.
05 : Henry Kalungi, 24 D (Uganda)
Still playing for the a strong 2012 Richmond Kickers side. Also, played all winter in Uganda.
06 : Rob Valentino, 26 D (USA)
Still with USL Pro Orlando City. We'll see how well that team does this year. They are making lots of noise about getting into MLS. From what I saw of Orlando a few weeks ago? Not a great move for the league.
07 : Paul Nicholson, 25 CDM, (England)
Resigned with Wilmington Hammerheads. He is one of those players that has you scratching your head as to why MLS teams even bother with drafting college kids. Sign this guy instead.
08 : Sainey Touray, 21 (Gambia)
With Harrisburg City. Just fractured his wrist, but hopes to get back to action soon.
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One of the Other guys from my original post... Jose Angulo, 23. He signed with NY Red Bulls. Good stuff!!
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