Michael Parkhurst and Jeff Larentowicz, Atlanta United’s two oldest players, continue to perform as if their careers are nearer the starting line rather than the finish line.
Larentowicz, a 34-year-old defensive midfielder, has started every game this season and 30 last year. He has 364 appearances in his MLS career.
Parkhurst, a 34-year-old centerback, has six starts this season and 33 last season. He has 253 appearances in his MLS career, as well numerous starts during six years in Europe.
The two are part of the spine of an Atlanta United defense that has three shutouts this season and is tied for the lead in goal difference (plus-9).
“We gave him the same medicine as (Manu) Ginobili,” Atlanta United manager Gerardo Martino said of Parkhurst. Martino is a big fan of the NBA, so his reference was to the Spur’s standout and fellow Argentinian.
Parkhurst said he’s not sure if he’s playing better than he ever has, but said he is playing with confidence and that he likes what the team is doing defensively.
“Looking back -- best form of my career? -- I would hope that six years younger I was a little bit sprier,” he said.
Though perhaps not as spry as he once was, Parkhurst has shown just enough speed to catch up to any offensive player who has gotten behind the defense this season.
“Trying to think ahead and give myself a head start whenever I can,” he said.
The only game in which Parkhurst didn’t play this season the team allowed four goals. They’ve allowed just four more in six games since.
Larentowicz was part of a two-man defensive midfield last season. He is flying solo in the spot this season and has shown no signs of slowing down, despite speculation that because of his age he won’t be able to start every league game this season.
“I give everything I have, every day, every week,” Larentowicz said. “If the coach sees that or feels that I can’t do it then that’s his decision. But I’m going to be out there and make myself available every single day that I can and leave it up to him.
“If I perform and the team’s performing then I’ll probably be in there.”
Martino said that Larentowicz will likely need some time off at some point, but is a “fundamental piece of our team and we hope he stays that way.”
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