2017 MLS SuperDraft Rounds 1 & 2 Analysis: DC United

Eric Klenofsky

School: Monmouth

Position: Goalkeeper

With their second pick in the second round, pick #12, 34th overall, DC selected goalkeeper Eric Klenofsky.

At 6 foot 6 inches, Klenofsky has been on trial with Everton, won numerous collegiate awards, and is by all means a great prospective goalie for the MLS. The only issue is, he sits behind USMNT prospect Bill Hamid, standout youth goalie Travis Worra, and USYNT prospect Charlie Horton. While Klenofsky’s chances of breaking through appear to be dire at first glance, there is also opportunity for him.

First of all, Hamid was recently ruled out the National Team camp due to injury. While Hamid has always been on the cusp of moving to Europe, his yearly injuries have set him back from getting regular minutes. Last year, Travis Worra stepped in for Hamid and not only held the defense together well, but performed strong enough to gather the interest of other MLS clubs. An outstanding back-up, some have even said that the 23 year old Worra should be the starter if Hamid ever leaves. Charlie Horton, on the other hand, is a 22 year old US Youth National team prospect who played with the DC United unofficial reserve team, the Richmond Kickers, until an injury sidelined him for the rest of the season.

Coming into 2017, it’s believed that Hamid will not be starting for at least a few games. This makes Worra the starting goalie, and if Horton is healthy, the backup. With this in mind, Klenofsky going on loan to Richmond to develop for a while is a great option. Otherwise, he could become the third choice Goalie should Hamid leave this year. Klenofsky could potentially start the season as the second choice goalie due to injuries, spend the rest of the season playing for Richmond, and finish the season as the second or third choice goalie. By all means, this is another safe and solid pick.