2011 MLS Preview: The D.C. United Soccer Team

Last season was a dismal season for D.C. United fans. The team was the worst team in the point standings. The 2010 squad was a far cry from the 1996, 1997, 1999, and 2004 MLS Cup Championship teams. The team replaced the coach and overhauled the club in hopes of getting to that level again.
Out With the Old

Jaime Moreno played for the United during all of the championship seasons. The record holding star called it a career. He was 37, he wasn't what he used to be and either was the team. Rodney Wallace and Troy Perkins found a new team to play for in Portland . Adam Cristman went to Los Angeles . Julius James was waived; Danny Allsoop and Pablo Hernandez were released.

In With the New

Forward Charlie Davies joins the United. Charlie had been playing for a club in France and for the National Team. He is a bit of a gamble trying to recover from a car accident. However, Davies is young still in his mid twenties. He brings international experience and European professional experience to the United. The United picked up Perry Kitchen from the draft. Kitchen should help strengthen the defense. The defense should be helped with Rodrigo Brasesco joining the club from Uruguay . The club also has goalkeeper Steve Cronin from Portland . The club also acquired Midfielder Dax McCarty from Portland as well. Forward Josh Wolff from Sporting Kansas City adds a veteran former star player to the mix. He should fill some of the leadership void left by the departure of Moreno . Joseph Ngwenya from Houston is a 30 year old forward.

Upcoming Core

Andy Nahjar is 18 years old and is the reigning Rookie of the Year. The midfielder should continue to get better as he ages and gains for experience. Chris Pontius hopes to put an injury ridden season before as he returns for his third season at forward.

New Coach

The D.C. United went for a youth movement at coach as well. Ben Olson becomes the head coach. The United also make one of their best players continue their career in soccer by coaching. At 33, fans can hope Olson's youth and playing experience can help him get the best out of a young club.

Outlook

Some say they United will compete for the playoffs this season. Fans would be happy with steps in the right direction. More scoring, better defense and more points is what I am looking for from the United. If D.C. United qualifies for the playoffs it is a bonus for the fans and the organization. A couple of years down the road the D.C. United could be challenging for the MLS Cup.

Sources:

dcunited.com