Klinsmann announces 16 'core' players for World Cup qualification
A file photo of U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann at the Genoa Luigi Ferraris stadium in Italy. (Feb. 28, 2012) Credit: AP
U.S. Men's National Team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann has released the names of 16 "core" players invited into camp in Orlando, Fla., to begin preparations for World Cup qualifying this summer.
Many of the country's top foreign-based players, whose seasons have recently come to a close, were included on the roster. The United States has a trio of friendlies before it begins World Cup qualifying June 8 against Antigua & Barbuda in Tampa, Fla.
Klinsmann made it clear that he's done experimenting with different lineups. Heading into this summer, he wants the best.
"It's a clear signal to other players that right now it's down to business," he said. "We are excited to start with this first group of players, and then welcome more at the beginning of next week."
Klinsmann will select up to 13 more players this Sunday. The team will train until May 25, then the roster will be pared down to 23 for the first friendly against Scotland on May 26 in Jacksonville. The Americans then play Brazil May 30 in Landover, Md., and Canada June 3 in Toronto before qualification begins.
Stars such as Clint Dempsey and Tim Howard are among the early selections. Landon Donovan and Brek Shea will surely be added with the next crop of MLS players.
One notable omission is defender Timothy Chandler, a rising star who makes his living in the Bundesliga.
"The door is certainly not closed on Timmy, but in the moment we move on without him,” said Klinsmann, who added that Chandler and him have talked and the defender felt as though he "needs to take a break."
GOALKEEPERS (3): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)
DEFENDERS (4): Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), Edgar Castillo (Club Tijuana), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover), Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin)
MIDFIELDERS (8): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Michael Bradley (Chievo Verona), Joe Corona (Club Tijuana), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04), Jose Torres (Pachuca), Danny Williams (Hoffenheim)
FORWARDS (1): Clint Dempsey (Fulham)
