Who should be called up for #USMNT CONCACAF Qualifiers? Midfielders Edition

This week, I’m exploring who should get called up for the next set of CONCACAF Qualifiers. Here’s the keeper edition, fullback edition, and centerback edition for your viewing pleasure. This is hard to pick from as well but for reasons that are different than the defenders. The midfield is our deepest player pool.

October 16, 2012; Kansas City, KS, USA; Guatemala defender Ruben Morales (2) tries to steal the ball from USA midfielder Michael Bradley (4) during the second half of the world cup qualifying match at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park. USA won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Midfielder choice #1: Michael Bradley (AS Roma)

Michael has been rising up to challenge for the title of top player on the USMNT team. His move to Italy worked out well for him however, he’s playing time has dipped with a new coach coming into the fold in the past month. This is something that needs to be monitored for the next several months.

Feb 6, 2013; San Pedro Sula, HONDURAS; USA midfielder Jermaine Jones (right) is defended by Honduras forward Carlos Costly in a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at Estadio Olimpico. Honduras defeated the United States 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Midfielder choice #2: Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04)

I don’t despise him like say…Doug does but that’s because he’s a really good player that’s being asked to do something that doesn’t cater to his skills for the national team.

October 16, 2012; Kansas City, KS, USA; USA midfielder Graham Zusi (19) controls the ball during the second half of the soccer match against Guatemala at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park. USA won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Midfielder choice #3: Graham Zusi (Sporting KC)

Graham had a terrific 2012 season for both club and country. I’m glad to see that we’re getting some new blood from the MLS into the pool.

October 16, 2012; Kansas City, KS, USA; USA midfielder Sacha Kljestan (16) heads the ball during second half of the world cup qualifying match against Guatemala at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park. USA won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Midfielder choice #4: Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht) 

Yes, I know he’s probably not Coach K’s #4 player but I think his ability to distribute the ball is needed badly in the midfield. Our forwards need more help on offense from this area and I think he’s one of the player that can help. He’s playing for a team that consistently plays in the UEFA competitions.

Feb 6, 2013; San Pedro Sula, HONDURAS; USA midfielder Danny Williams (14) is defended by Honduras forward Jerry Bengston (11) in a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at Estadio Olimpico. Honduras defeated the United States 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Midfielder choice #5: Danny Williams (Hoffenheim)

I really like Williams and honestly, I think he’s the heir to Jones’ spot on the team. He gets bumped down for the reasons why I bumped up Kljestan.

September11, 2012; Columbus, OH, USA; USA midfielder Jose Torres (16) shoots on goal during a World Cup qualifying match at Columbus Crew Stadium. USA won the game 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports

Midfielder choice #6: Jose Torres (Tigres)

Gringo is playing really well for his club but the fact remains that unless Coach K plays him in a spot that best suits him (such as a deep lying midfielder) I think he’s best position will be as a sub. He can climb up this list if he finds success internationally.

September11, 2012; Columbus, OH, USA; USA midfielder Brek Shea (11) plays the ball ahead of Jamaica midfielder Dane Richards (11) during a World Cup qualifying match at Columbus Crew Stadium. USA won the game 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports

Midfielder choice #7: Brek Shea (Stoke City)

As I’ve mentioned before when talking about the centerbacks, I’m not the biggest fan of Stoke due to the manager’s player tactics. However, he’s really doing well for them and already has more minutes played for them compared to compatriot Maurice Edu. He gives us something that we desperately need: width options.

May 30, 2012; Landover, MD, USA; USA midfielder Maurice Edu (7) dribbles the ball against Brazil during the first half of a men

Midfielder choice #8: Maurice Edu (Bursaspor)

I’m not a fan hence why I have him so low yet he’s a mainstay on the team. I think he’s the poorest of the defensive midfielder options and so for me, his value is lower. However, I wouldn’t mind seeing him make the move to centerback (wow, I’m desperate).

Other players to consider (in no particular order):

Joe Corona (He’s sure playing well for Tijuana. I wouldn’t be shocked if he replaces any of the players on this list outside of Bradley and Jones).

Josh Gatt (We need width. That’s why).

Brad Davis (Like Brad Evans, he improved his stock in January so he’s a possibility).

Mix Diskeruud (He needs to be integrated more but seems to be in the doghouse right now).