2.12.14
Morning Read: Cooking With Water & Much More
Benji Joya makes a good first impression with the Chicago Fire; Jurgen Klinsmann continues his barnstorming; Yanks in action today; and an anniversary worth celebrating.
BY
Josh Deaver
Posted
February 12, 2014
9:59 AM
Newest Chicago Fire acquisition Benji Joya is looking to make a statement during his MLS loan spell. In his preseason debut with his new club on Saturday, the former U.S. under-20 midfielder played the second half of a 2-0 win over D.C United, helping the spark the Men in Red with what was reportedly an impressive display. You can watch the highlights below.
Since moving north of the border from Santos Laguna, Joya summed up his mindset thusly: “When you’re on the bench all you want to do is come in and prove to the coach you’re ready to start. Young players are hungry—we’re always looking to get better and do well to get in the starting 11." On Tuesday, Joya featured again for Chicago, playing 45 minutes during a3-0 win over Orlando City.
In the midst of a media barnstorming tour—one which has already produced a few controversial statements—Jurgen Klinsmann sat down with FIFA.com to discuss CONCACAF, the U.S. men’s national team, and what fans can expect in Brazil. It’s worth a watch. A favorite quote: “You've got to tell them, 'They [top footballing nations] only cook with water as well.'”
A late-season loan move could be in the cards for American-born teenager Duane Holmes. With the return of several key players, Huddersfield Town boss Mark Robins has been forced to sit Holmes in recent weeks. “I want to see him come through strongly,” his manger said, “and you look at the situation and think ‘How is his next progression going to come?’” The 19-year-old has not featured for the club since early January—and was not in the 18 for Monday’s 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forrest. Coincidence or not, the Terriers have lost five of six matches in that span.
There’s a full docket of Americans in action today: In the English Premier League, Jozy Altidore and a resurgent Sunderland take on Manchester City while Geoff Cameron and Stoke City line up against Swansea. Clint Dempsey’s ignominious loan spell with Fulham is also winding down. With only two matches remaining, the Nacogdoches native will presumably feature against Liverpool (3 pm EST); hoping to salvage any positives from what has been a disappointing stretch. Moving to Germany, Fabian Johnson could see a return to action for Hoffenheim when it takes on Wolfsburg in German Cup action.
Yesterday was the five-year anniversary of Dos A Cero III. Relive all the memories—including Frankie Hejduk doin’ his Frankie Hejduk thing—with this retrospective.
Michael Janosz/isiphotos.com
