Classic Cunningham “punishing a defensive mistake” goal.

way to go JEFF!!!

Great for him, a good memory indeed.
He won’t be used for nat team duty when it matters though, so it was fun to see him score in his few chances he’s been given.

Glad he got him a goal. This was the first time he’s ever been given a decent amount of time on the field with the Nats and allowed to play his true position. Just too bad the midfield laid an egg while he was in the game. He got no service.

Actually Daniel, with Charlie Davies out and Donovan too critical to the US’ midfield, Jeff may be an option for the US at the World Cup. Going through several scenarios on ESPN, Alexi Lalas and Tommy Smyth went through the possibilities and might have flipped on a light bulb in my head.

If Donovan is kept at the midfield position, it seems that the pairing with Altidore will be quite difficult. Conor Casey has looked good, but doesn’t really have the speed necessary (Cunny is faster than Casey). Robbie Findley might come in handy with his speed, yet lack of experience will hinder him. Bringing back Brian McBride might be an option, but unlikely.

The only person I think that can effectively match up with Jozy Altidore at this stage would be Cunningham. He still has some speed (though not as much as he used to have) and he also has the experience. The only other possibility I could think of would be EJ, and that doesn’t inspire much confidence, either.

If Donovan is moved into the forward position, it’s a whole new ball game. Tons of possibilities, but Jeff still has a shot for World Cup glory if all the pieces fall into place. Would it be best for the US? Who knows but Bob Bradley. Without Davies, I’d take my chances with Cunny, personally.

Agreed with the man. It’s pretty clear that you can’t play Jozy with Casey or Ching; Cunningham could be a good complement is in the midfield (which I think he should be). I’m not saying he’s a lock, but he’s going to get a serious look, especially if he keeps producing.

sorry.. *if Donovan is in the midfield

I agree with The Man, goals are goals and the US needs them. If Jeff scores in his next outing or two it’ll be hard not to at least put him on the plane to South Africa.

Also love how all the Eurosnobs came out after the game to talk about how Jeff’s goal had no quality. Sometimes US soccer’s worst enemies are their own fans.

methinks we’ll have a much better indication of how the roster could look when the pools are set in a few weeks. BBrad will tailor the roster to the teams that we’re schedule to play in our pool. There are 15-18 spots set already, so we’re really only talking about 6 spots that are fluid right now. a speedy forward, the 3rd gk (if we take one), versatile defender, etc.

Cunny has a chance, but it depends on if we need forwards or if BBrad thinks he can rely on Donovan and Clint to move between forward and midfield