Chris Wondolowski almost certainly will not be making his first competitive start for the United States national team on Tuesday night, but that won't stop me from wondering whether or not he's deserving. The 28-year-old sometimes striker, sometimes right winger has been in impeccable form in MLS over the last year and a half, but it's not often that average 28-year-olds suddenly become international quality.
USA Vs. Canada, Gold Cup 2011: Is Chris Wondolowski Deserving Of A Start?
As a result, I’m not terribly sold on Wondolowski as a viable option. Career journeymen starting for the United States is something that leaves a bad taste in the mouth of many, but his form and versatility mean he’s certainly worth at least a look at present.
If Bob Bradley wants to stick with a 4-4-2 formation, various arguments can be made for Wondolowski starting ahead of either Juan Agudelo or Jozy Altidore, as he's certainly beating both of them on form at the moment. If Bradley wants to shift to an attack-minded variation on 4-5-1 with either Landon Donovan or Clint Dempsey playing off of a central striker, a case can be made for Wondolowski filling that vacated spot on the wing.
Chris Wondolowski isn't nearly as talented as Jozy Altidore, Juan Agudelo, or Alejandro Bedoya, as evidenced by his long-standing status as a journeyman striker. But sometimes it's just a good idea to go with the hot hand, logic or natural talent be damned. Especially when your other options (read: Altidore) just aren't getting it done.
See More:
