Clint Dempsey is one of the most accomplished American players of all time. His success in the Premier League and on the international stage has provided fans with several memories over the years. His return to MLS in 2013 was expected to push the Seattle Sounders over the top and bring home that elusive MLS Cup.
To date, things have not gone as planned. After coming up just short in New England in 2005 and 2006, Dempsey’s second stint in MLS has not included a return to the MLS Cup. Now at age 33, questions about time running out on his MLS Cup quest are becoming more legitimate.
With Sigi Schmid at the helm, Seattle has put in place some very talented teams during their existence. Playing in front of a passionate fan base, Seattle has been a contender most years. Unfortunately they have been unable to bring home the prize for their loyal fans.
This season saw the exit of attacking star Obafemi Martins just prior to the season. Even with that exit, the Sounders were returning a solid cast with Stefan Frei in goal, Chad Marshall leading the backline, and Dempsey guiding the attack. The addition of the talented young Jordan Morris appeared to give Seattle a team that should find themselves challenging in a tough Western Conference.
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Unfortunately, this season has been a struggle. Goals have been difficult to come by, resulting in a record of 4 wins, 5 losses and 1 tie. With a negative goal differential, Seattle has found life on the road difficult as they have only claimed one point away from home.
With 10 goals scored in 10 games played, the attack for Seattle has played well below expectations. Seattle has scored two goals only twice in a game this season. They have no games of more than two goals.
The lack of execution in the offensive end does not fall solely on Dempsey. Tactics and understanding between the team along with being the sole focus of most defenses have all played their part.
Seattle must find a way to maximize Dempsey’s touches around the box. They must also find other outlets for creating and cashing in on goal scoring opportunities. This may have to come in the form of a mid season signing.
Seattle has a Designated Player spot to use if they can find the right signing. Seattle’s ownership has not been afraid to kick the tires on potential DPs. If they can find an attacking midfielder that can pose a threat on goal and provide service for the frontline, they could begin to unlock opposing defenses with more regularity.
Getting their other DP, Nelson Valdez, on track would also go a long way to providing Dempsey and Morris with support. Valdez has yet to make good on the promise he showed in his opening games with Seattle last season.
If the Sounders can not get their offensive woes figured out, the opportunity to capture their first MLS cup will have to wait. As this opportunity closes, so does Dempsey’s window for MLS glory. Not hoisting the MLS Cup will not diminish what he has accomplished over the years. It will leave a gap in what he wanted to achieve and what Seattle’s fans expected when he first pulled on a Sounders jersey.