MLS: Bargain Best XI – Most undervalued players

HARRISON, NEW JERSEY- September 30: Aaron Long #33 of New York Red Bulls shakes hands with fans after the team win during the New York Red Bulls Vs Atlanta United FC MLS regular season game at Red Bull Arena on September 30th, 2018 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
HARRISON, NEW JERSEY- September 30: Aaron Long #33 of New York Red Bulls shakes hands with fans after the team win during the New York Red Bulls Vs Atlanta United FC MLS regular season game at Red Bull Arena on September 30th, 2018 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
2 of 4
Philadelphia Union
CHESTER, PA – APRIL 07: Union Defender Auston Trusty (26) looks on after a header in the first half during the game between the San Jose Earthquakes and Philadelphia Union on April 07, 2018 at Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, PA. (Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Defense

Left-Back: Ben Sweat

Fresh off his first national team call-up, Ben Sweat has been a regular for New York City FC this season. At 27, the left back is one of the older players on our list. He began his career with Columbus Crew but failed to see the field. He has revived his career in MLS this season with NYCFC, however, after a stint with the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Sweat has made 27 appearances this season and has one assist. At only a salary of $67,500, he is a great value for one of the best defenses in the league.

Centre-Back: Aaron Long

Aaron Long has been part of one of the best centre-back duos in the league. Long and his Tim Parker have been key pieces of a New York Red Bulls defense that has allowed a league-low 33 goals. Aside from his great form on defense, Long has also scored three goals and provided two, assists in 33 appearances this season. At only a salary of $73,125, it could be argued that Long is the best value player in all of MLS.

Centre-Back: Auston Trusty

Auston Trusty is another young player who has been a regular for his team; the defender has made 33 appearances for the Philadelphia Union, who have clinched a spot in the playoffs. Trusty has scored one goal and had one assist on the offensive side of the ball and has been a key presence for a Philadelphia Union defense that has conceded 47 goals.

Right-Back: Reggie Cannon

Reggie Cannon is another player who recently made his USMNT debut. The young FC Dallas academy product has cemented his place in the domestic starting XI this season and is looking to establish himself on the international stage. He has made 32 appearances for the club, while scoring one goal and providing three assists. The promising defender has been solid defensively too. FC Dallas has only conceded 42 goals this season. At a salary of $67,500, the 20-year-old will certainly see higher wages in the future.