Ever since bursting onto the U.S. soccer scene by scoring nine goals as a 21-year-old with the Columbus Crew, Edson Buddle has been considered a potentially world-class player. He followed up that season by scoring 30 goals over the next three, giving him 39 goals in 89 MLS regular-season matches. The sky seemed to be the limit.
Edson Buddle Is On Trial With EPL’s Birmingham City
During that same time, Buddle struggled with injuries and behavioral issues that likely kept him from realizing his full potential. Despite continuing to play at a high level whenever he was on the field, Buddle never got on the field for the United States Men's National Team and probably scared off potential suitors in Europe.
Finally healthy for a complete season and showing much improved maturity, Buddle broke through in 2010. He scored 18 goals (giving him 90 in his MLS career) and made his first World Cup team.
Now, Buddle may be poised to finally get his shot in Europe. The Galaxy forward, still just 29, is training with Birmingham City and drawing some legitimate interest.
“I’m not sure when he goes back,” Birmingham manager Alex McLeish said. “I think he’s here for next week as well because we’d like a longer look at him.
“He’s been scoring goals in the MLS and had a good season and he’s available.”
The Blues, currently just two points clear of relegation, are in need of some scoring punch. They’ve scored just 17 goals in 17 matches, the fourth lowest total in the EPL.
The biggest hurdle, according to McLeish, is getting Buddle a European work permit. Money does not seem to be a major concern.
“I’m not sure of the facts, but I know it’s not going to cost us and arm and a leg if we do it,” McLeish said.
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