USMNT: Top 3 centre-backs for 2022 World Cup qualifying

NASHVILLE, TN - JULY 03: United States defender Aaron Long (23) reacts to a call during the Gold Cup semifinal between Jamaica and the United States on July 3, 2019 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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Wolfsburg’s US defender John Anthony Brooks (R) and Malmo’s Swedish forward Isaac Kiese Thelin (L) vie for the ball during the Europa League last 32 first leg football match between VfL Wolfsburg and Malmö FF in Wolfsburg on February 20, 2020. (Photo by Ronny Hartmann / AFP) (Photo by RONNY HARTMANN/AFP via Getty Images) /

1. John Brooks

While Long is the most consistent and reliable centre-back for the USMNT, John Brooks has the highest potential, if he can ever stay fit. He plays in a top-five European league, is a regular for Wolfsburg, and plays with a domineering swagger that is ideal for a modern-day centre-back.

Brooks suffered a pulled hamstring early in the season, but since his return in late-October, he has been a consistent presence in the Wolfsburg defence, starting 13 of the last 17 Bundesliga matches. He is a superb passer, stands at 6-foot-4, bringing terrific aerial dominance, and has the athleticism and range to cover ground in a high-pressing team.

Brooks’ only problem is injury. Since the start of the 2017/18 season, the year he signed with Wolfsburg, he has missed 37 domestic matches. More problematic, he has suffered issues with his knees, hamstrings, and tendons. These are the types of injuries that can reoccur.

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Nevertheless, Brooks is now playing regularly, is in the prime of his career, and looked excellent versus Canada in Autumn last year for the USMNT. He and Long are the starting pair, for now.

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