Who will start for Atlanta United in Friday’s game at LAFC, which will be televised by ESPN?
LAFC (46 points) seems to be Atlanta United’s (36 points) biggest threat to repeat as MLS champ.
Not available for selection by manager Frank de Boer are Hector Villalba, George Bello and Kevin Kratz.
Here we go:
Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who leads the league with 10 shutouts.
Centerback Miles Robinson.
Centerback Michael Parkhurst.
Centerback Leandro Gonzalez Pirez.
Right wingback Julian Gressel, whose crosses are invaluable.
Left wingback Franco Escobar. I think Escobar, who started last week's win against D.C. United as a centerback, will move to left wingback to try to contain Carlos Vela. In past games, de Boer has discussed that he likes to put a right-footed player on the left side if the opponent features an attacking player who likes to cut from outside to inside, which is what Vela does well. De Boer likes to do this because the attacking player will be cutting onto the defender's stronger foot. Escobar also is among the fastest players in MLS, which could benefit defending against Vela.
Defensive Eric Remedi.
Defensive midfielder Darlington Nagbe. Nagbe's ability to break a press and turn defense into offense will be key.
Midfielder Emerson Hyndman.
Striker Pity Martinez. When I wrote this Wednesday morning, I had Brandon Vazquez as the starter. De Boer praised Vazquez's hold-up work after D.C. United. His ability to be a long-ball outlet to break LAFC's press could be another key on Friday. Plus, Walker Zimmerman is a big dude. Vazquez can match up with him on set pieces. But then Vazquez did something to his adductor during training on Wednesday. So, I think Martinez will get the nod. Not a bad second choice though, no?
Striker Josef Martinez.
About the Author
