Just wanted to post this soccernet article. I know it's a couple of days old, but I have a feeling about this kid. Think he'll make it bigger than anybody anticipated. Perhaps somewhat like Dempsey, in terms of being overlooked early and making it farther than others? http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/story/ ... erlaeckens
Nice article thanks for posting Heather. I bet there are a lot of players that get overlooked and maybe end up quitting too soon. I've never really bought into this idea about having to make it or be noticed by 18 yrs old. Some will say even younger in Europe. Dempsey is 28 and still getting better. I think soccer is probably the sport in which you are most likely to be overlooked and I think it's also the sport with the most opportunity for improvement as you mature. With the current system we have in the US I think teams would be wise to keep looking at older players. In Europe maybe this isnt the case. Maybe they invest so much in youth players/programs that they need to sign them and get their money's worth by a certain age. Also, it's probably a heck of a lot easier to scout the talent over there.
Interesting article, thanks Heather. One of the things I liked about Charlie Davies was he played like he had a chip on his shoulder. I really like the idea of a forward w/CJ's background. If you take a look at Jozy Altidore who was the 'next big thing' as a teenager, but has had his mental approach and work ethic called into question too many times for it not to be a real issue. Sapong has been told that he isn't good enough his whole life and this is the fuel that drives him. I still prefer Jozy and believe he will have a great career, but will keep an eye on CJ and see if he keeps getting better.
The story is very similar to that of our favorite Cheesehead. He was pretty much ignored over here and would have wound up in obscurity if he hadn't gone to England and played Thierry Henry off the pitch in a pre-season match. From undrafted and unwanted to playing in the World Cup.
