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For the second time in two games, Jurgen Klinsmann will be forced into making some changes to his team against his will. DaMarcus Beasley is suspended, so Klinsmann will either have to do some re-arranging against Honduras or introduce an entirely new left back.
The good news is that he gets two of his best players back for this game. Graham Zusi is back from suspension, while Jermaine Jones has passed a concussion test and will suit up on Tuesday night for the United States. With no other serious injury or suspension concerns, Klinsmann can keep his team together for the most part, but he'll be hoping the slight changes he does have to make won't have any adverse effects.
Projected United States lineup (4-2-3-1): Tim Howard; Fabian Johnson, Matt Besler, Omar Gonzalez, Brad Evans; Jermaine Jones, Michael Bradley; Eddie Johnson, Clint Dempsey, Graham Zusi; Jozy Altidore.
And now to my imaginary friend's reactions.
You're benching Cameron after that performance?
It's not that I want to bench Geoff Cameron, it's just that Jermaine Jones is really good and was one of the first names on the team sheet before he hit his head. If he's fine, he'll play now. Be happy that we have a guy like Cameron, the best 12th man that the USMNT could ever hope for.
Fabian Johnson is doing so well at left midfield
Well, I think he's done okay there, and I think that the early, deep cross he made to assist Jozy Altidore's goal was the kind of ball that we see fullbacks play more often than wingers. Edgar Castillo is good and I'd be happy to see him play instead, but I think that Klinsmann moves Fab back to left back for one game.
Wait a second, did you just say that Edgar Castillo is good? The Edgar Castillo that I know?
Yeah, that guy. I know, he's been horrible for the USMNT in the past, but he's had a couple of very good seasons in Mexico. For those who don't have the time/channels/interest to catch Tijuana on a regular basis: Edgar Castillo is good. Don't be horrified if he starts and my lineup is wrong.
Are the U.S. going to be so awesome with GAM on the left, Zusi on the right and Fab at left back that this becomes the new first choice team?
You bet they are. Count it. Kobe!
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