Brad Evans added to USMNT January camp roster

Jurgen Klinsmann has added Brad Evans to the United States roster for January camp. The Seattle Sounders man joined up with the Americans immediately and will be in training with the team on Monday.

January camp began last week with a mix of national teamers and U-23 players. Notably absent in the squad was a slew of the Americans' more experienced players, which was a compromise Klinsmann struck with some veterans who did not want to have a month of training with the national team before preseason with their MLS clubs and then the start of their seasons. But Klinsmann said that he might call up some veterans as camp progressed, especially in the run-up to the friendlies against Iceland and Canada on January 31 and February 5.

Evans is the first veteran to be added to the team. He gives the team another option in defense, and at right back in particular.

In the first week, Eric Miller was the team's only natural right back. Matt Polster and Tim Parker could also slide over and play the spot, but that would put them out of position. If Klinsmann wasn't entirely thrilled with Miller's play -- understandable considering he's a marginal player without a cap -- then he didn't have a suitable natural right back. And this could have been the plan all along, to give Evans a week off before shoring up the right back spot.

With Evans in the squad, Klinsmann has assurances at right back. He also has someone who can help set an example for the many younger players in the team and establish the culture he wants in camp.