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MLS: Best Outside Back in the League

By Zach Lahey

Jun 8, 2016; Montreal, Ontario, Canada; Montreal Impact forward Michael Salazar (19) heads the ball and Toronto FC defender Steven Beitashour (33) defends during the first half at Stade Saputo. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 8, 2016; Montreal, Ontario, Canada; Montreal Impact forward Michael Salazar (19) heads the ball and Toronto FC defender Steven Beitashour (33) defends during the first half at Stade Saputo. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports /
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When people think about defenses, more people believe center backs and goalkeepers are the vital part of the back line. In most cases, they are correct but what about the outside defenders. Outside back is an underrated position in Major League Soccer.

There are many great outside backs in the league, but which one is the best? First, the most surprising outside back of the 2016 season has been Keegan Rosenberry.

The rookie has been phenomenal for the Union this season. He has defended the likes of David Villa, Didier Drogba, and Giovani Dos Santos.

He also contributed in the attack and has contributed in a lot of  chances that has been created this season. Rosenberry has been a pleasant surprise for the Union this season and they will need him to clinch a playoff berth.

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Another right back that has played great this season is Steven Beitashour. He was sent to Toronto F.C. from the Vancouver Whitecaps. Beitashour has been the shining light for the Toronto defense. They currently sit in fourth place of the Eastern Conference. He has a great cross and has been a part of championship teams in the past. He has played every minute this season and will look to help Toronto gain some points in the next couple games.

Tony Beltran has been one of the best right backs in the league since 2008. He is the best one on one defender in Major League Soccer and is very smart tactically.

May 28, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Real Salt Lake defender Tony Beltran (2) tries to play the ball out of the air against Columbus Crew SC at MAPFRE Stadium. Crew SC won the game 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports
May 28, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Real Salt Lake defender Tony Beltran (2) tries to play the ball out of the air against Columbus Crew SC at MAPFRE Stadium. Crew SC won the game 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports /

Beltran has been a force to be reckoned with over the years and has helped Real Salt Lake claim trophies. He is not much of an attacking player, but is extremely good at keeping possession.

Finally, possibly the best left back in the league for the last four years is Chris Tierney. The Boston native was selected by his boyhood club in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft. He has a deadly free kick and is great offensively. Tierney has been the best left back in the league for years and has proven to be a stalwart at the position.

Many outside backs have been named but which one is the best in the league currently. My choice for the best outside back of 2016 is Keegan Rosenberry.

He is only a rookie but has been playing like a veteran. The Union are possibly the best team in Major League Soccer right now with the youngest defense. Rosenberry has earned this title and will continue to impress in the years to come.

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