With the national team's first extended training camp since the World Cup now less than two weeks away, here are a few details on how Jurgen Klinsmann's squad might shape up ahead of next month's friendlies against Ecuador and Honduras:
1. It will be big. As many as 30 players could be summoned for the double bill, although with MLS playoff races on a knife edge as the domestic season draws to a close, some of them could be excused for one of the two matches.
2. Because it's an official international break, a full contingent of European players is expected, including many of the youngsters who were involved for the impressive Sept. 3 win in the Czech Republic.
3. The aforementioned friendly in Prague was a stand-alone fixture, meaning Klinsmann had access to his players for only a short time -- in some cases less than 48 hours. With most of the team available for nine full days this time around, not only will the coach be able to work his charges harder (double days!), the U.S. training staff will also be able to conduct the baseline fitness and medical tests that have become a staple during the German's tenure. When it comes to the actual names Klinsmann will call, the six listed below are strong candidates -- even if they are not all trending in the same direction this week.
Warming up:
Michael Bradley, M, Toronto FC (MLS)
Why he's here: In a must-win game for TFC, Bradley had two assists in a 3-0 home victory against Chivas USA.
What this means: Following a pair of rough outings against Philadelphia earlier this month, Bradley has been inspirational in Toronto's two most recent games. Keeping his club in the hunt for the postseason decreases his chances of participating against Ecuador on Oct. 10, though, as the Reds play crucial matches on Oct. 8 and 11.
Timmy Chandler, D, Eintracht Frankfurt (Germany)
Why he's here: Chandler made his first start of the season on Saturday, going the distance in a 2-2 draw at Schalke.
What this means: After not seeing the field in two of Eintracht's first three games, the 24-year-old was in danger of being left off Klinsmann's roster in October. Now, after a lively 2014-15 Bundesliga debut, he's in position to keep his place for club (right back) and country (left).
- Carlisle: MLS Power Rankings
Joe Corona, M, Club Tijuana (Mexico)
Why he's here: Since returning from Prague, Corona has played every minute for the Xolos in Liga MX under new coach Daniel Guzman.
What this means: The 24-year-old appears ready to take the next step. Combined with the regular club reps, his solid showing versus the Czechs could lead to more minutes next month -- especially if Bradley stays in Toronto for the Yanks' opener.
Cooling down:
Emerson Hyndman, M, Fulham (England)
Why he's here: The youngster started four of Fulham's first six league games but has now been an unused substitute in two straight.
What this means: At 18, Hyndman isn't expected to play every week. The concern here is last-place Fulham's appalling start to life in the English second tier, and the uncertainty that exists after manager Felix Magath was let go last week. Still, because Hyndman fared well in Prague, don't be surprised if the little Texan gets invited in again next month.
Fabian Johnson, M, Borussia Monchengladbach (Germany)
Why he's here: After finally seeing some time at right back -- the position he plays for the U.S. -- Johnson returned to a left midfield role in Gladbach's last two matches.
What this means: It looks like the 26-year-old is there to stay for now. And while that might not influence where Johnson lines up for the Americans in the short term, eventually it could.
Rubio Rubin, F, Utrecht (Netherlands)
Why he's here: Like Hyndman, fellow 18-year-old Rubin's starting spot may be in jeopardy. On Sunday, he didn't get off the bench in Utrecht's 1-0 win over Groningen.
What this means: Rubin made the lineup in three of his club's first five Eredivisie games mainly because more experienced forwards were injured. It won't help him that one of those players scored the winner upon his return, but like Hyndman, the good impression he made in his first senior camp could trump any fully expected growing pains.