USMNT: 5 Bold Predictions about Klinsmann’s World Cup 2018 Roster

Mar 25, 2013; Mexico City, MEXICO; United States midfielder Maurice Edu during training session at Estadio Azteca in advance of World Cup qualifying match against Mexico. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Prediction #2: Maurice Edu makes the roster after being cut in 2014.

Edu is a proven force at the defensive midfield role both for club and country. While most look at his move to Philadelphia Union as perhaps a step back in his career, Edu has shown versatility in the City of Brotherly Love, playing as a center back. Interim manager Jim Curtin made the decision to play Edu at his non-preferred position, and it has worked out in the Union’s favor.

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While not too many people questioned why Edu did not make the roster this summer, especially after Kyle Beckerman showed so well in Brazil, he likely holds the edge over the Real Salt Lake man due to age alone. Beckerman will be in his mid 30’s by the time the next World Cup rolls around while Edu will be just 32.

Edu has come out and say that he would like to return to the Union, but his chances would more than likely be enhanced if he returns to Stoke City or another European club and earns consistent playing time there. Klinsmann has made his feelings known about the speed and quality of play in leagues overseas in comparison to MLS.

If Beckerman is truly out of the picture like most believe, Edu is likely next in line at this point. A lot of things can change over the course of four years, but with his experience in EPL and at the international stage, it is easy to believe that it is his job to lose. Expect Edu to use this summer’s disappointment as motivation moving forward, that is if he plans to continue his career with the national team.