The MLS today is ripe with young talent ready to make a splash in international soccer. As we witnessed with DeAndre Yedlin, an opportunity to play against top foreign competition can turn a player into a superstar. The Multiplex expects more MLS youngsters to make their mark on international soccer with the USA in the coming years. Here are a few players who are poised to be picked by coach Jürgen Klinsmann for their talent.
“I think if I were to get called in the future and have an opportunity, I think that’s something every player would love to do and dream of.” – Dom Dwyer
Dom Dwyer – Age 23
The Sporting KC forward definitely has what it takes to compete at the international level. He has shown his dependability for Sporting this season, leading the team in goals. But what makes Dwyer a good choice for international play is his ability to perform in big games. In last season’s playoffs, Dwyer scored the winner that sent KC to the MLS Cup final. Given the US’ attacking performance in this year’s World Cup, adding a scoring threat like Dwyer would ease the pressure on Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey to score every goal. He still needs to secure US citizenship, but in an interview Dwyer noted “I think if I were to get called in the future and have an opportunity, I think that’s something every player would love to do and dream of.”
Gyasi Zardes – Age 22
The LA Galaxy have benefited from Gyasi Zardes’ play this season. He’s meshed well with veterans like Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan, showing that he is comfortable playing alongside other stars. What separates Zardes from the competition is speed… his quickness and acceleration give him the ability to beat defenders to the ball and get open shots. He could provide the US with another scoring threat, lifting the attack they currently have.
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Luis Gil – Age 20
Gil has blossomed for Real Salt Lake since assuming a starting role as center midfielder. He has international experience, playing for all of the US’ youth soccer teams and even making an appearance for Team USA. His accomplishments are impressive given that he is only 20 years old. I see Gil assuming a bigger role on the national team and one day becoming a starter for the US. His balance and agility will give him an edge against foreign players.
Harry Shipp – Age 22
The Chicago Fire have struggled this season, but the play of Harry Shipp has been a bright spot. He has six goals in 16 appearances for the Fire this season. In his college career at Notre Dame, Shipp was highly decorated and won the NCAA division 1 soccer championship in his senior season. His performance as of week 19 has many believing he’s leading in the running for Rookie Of The Year. Hopefully for the US, Shipp will make an immediate impact the same way he has for Chicago.
Jul 2, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Fire forward Harrison Shipp (19) during the second half at Toyota Park. The Chicago Fire and Toronto FC tie 1-1. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Diego Fagundez – Age 19
Like Dom Dwyer, Diego Fagundez is a foreign born MLS player seeking US citizenship. But unlike Dwyer, Fagundez was naturalized in the US, moving to America from Uruguay at the age of five. Diego has been playing for the NE Revolution since 2011 after playing for the club’s youth squad. In 2013 he had a breakout season, scoring 13 goals in 31 games at the age of 18. This season he has four goals in 18 games. For a player this young, Fagundez has a ton of experience at the club level and has played internationally for Uruguay. Fortunately for the US, he has confirmed his interest in playing for Team USA.