The stand out performer by far was Jermaine Jones who was everywhere last night. Breaking up attacks, distributing the ball well, and even making late runs into the box to provide an offensive spark that the nats clearly lacked throughout. If he plays like that on a consistent basis he has to be the first midfielder on the team sheet for Jurgen Klinsmann. A player who wouldn't normally be in this camp due to European commitments was serving an 8 match ban and took the most of the opportunity given to him by Kilnsmann. Including being given the captains armband which certainly gave Jones a boost of sorts.
Another bright spot was the defense. They were rarely troubled by a mediocre Venezuela team but AJDLG, Cameron, Parkhurst, and Pearce all did their jobs well. AJDLG and Cameron especially deserve call ups against Italy for their strong performances. Cameron could partner either one of Bocanegra or Onyewu well given his technical skill set and ability to step forward into midfield and move the ball around. Zach Lloyd also looked bright in his limited playing time, his crosses were very dangerous on the night.
The disappointment for fans has to be the offense that almost looks clueless without one of Dempsey or Donovan available to be the catalyst. Shea for all the hype was very one dimensional and didn't run at his defender nearly enough and Zusi on the other side offers nothing from open play. Feilhaber was tidy but didn't provide the spark that a number 10 should give. Worst of all was Teal Bunbury who looked clueless as the lone striker and often pulled out into wide positions where he plays for Sporting Kansas City which left a gaping hole up top for the nats.
The positives and negatives that come with these games are to be expected considering the mostly MLS make up of the squad but Klinsmann needs to find more difference makers in the national pool and fast if he wants to improve on his average record as head coach.
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