USMNT Training Camp

[Deuce]

Here are some photos from the training camp.

[Dolo]

Here are more great photos from North Carolina. :kewlpics:
http://www.ibiblio.org/footy/2006c/0516_usmnt_ycj.php?page=1

[AreliusIV]

Marc Connolly has a few quick-hit items from his time spent in Cary, N.C., with the U.S. national team this past week:


Claudio Reyna looks as slim as I can ever remember seeing him, and overall very fit. I think the layoff he had tending to his shoulder during the early spring probably helped him in the long run, as he'll surely be a lot fresher this summer than he would have been had he played a full slate of matches all winter and spring.


I'm not sure how much of it was caught on tape on ussoccer.com, but John O'Brien's perfect left-footed cross that found the head of Eddie Johnson for a highlight-reel goal in training this past Wednesday really was something. For one, it showed how well O'Brien can hit a ball from the flank (sometimes people seem to forget this about him). Secondly, it displayed the athleticism of Johnson, who can do a lot more than simply outrun opponents when he's on the field. (Remember back to his goal against Trinidad & Tobago off Steve Cherundolo's cross if you need reminding.)


Different guys are displaying their leadership qualities. I thought it was interesting to see Cherundolo run side by side with DaMarcus Beasley during shuttle runs, sometimes turning to face him, pleading with him to go faster and push himself, as the two distanced themselves from the others in their group. That's gotta be a good sign for Bruce Arena.


Clint Dempsey is dialed-in. Simply running hard, always battling, always getting back on defense, and always pushing himself right through to the end of the training session. You don't have to be a genius to figure out that he's gunning for a starting spot against the Czechs.


Speaking of Dempsey, when you talk to some of the former players such as Bruce Murray and Eric Wynalda that have been bystanders at camp this week, he's the one name that keeps popping up as to who is excited to watch during the tournament.


For what it's worth, the best goal I saw all week was an absolute bomb to the top corner of the net from the 18-yard box hit by Brian Ching off a cross from the left side. Even though it came during a finishing drill, pitting three attackers versus two backs, it's interesting to note considering most people are used to seeing him score goals with his head from closer range.


Marcus Hahnemann is an absolute monster. When it comes to pure shot-stopping, he is a sight to take in.

[AreliusIV]

U.S. soccer looking for next star