It should’ve been eight.
With slightly less than half the season remaining, it’s been well established that D.C. United is the class of Major League Soccer. United (13-1-6) is 20 points ahead in the MLS Eastern Conference standings, unbeaten in 14 straight games and received more than adequate recognition with coach Peter Nowak and seven of 18 players having been selected for the MLS All-Star game.
But the closest defensive midfielder Brian Carroll will get to the match against Chelsea on Aug. 5 in Chicago will be the sofa in front of his television, and that’s only if he’s not busy and decides to TiVo the match.
“It’s hard to answer that question,” said Carroll when asked if he was disappointed after not being chosen. “I’m happy for our guys that are going to the All-Star game. I think that they’ll do a good job, and of course I’d like to be there. But I think it’s something where I’m more happy for them than disappointed for myself.”
Now in his fourth season, the former West Springfield High standout leads United (13-1-6) in minutes played (1,789) and is tied for the team lead in starts and appearances (20). He’s matched his career high for assists (3), and he scored his first goal of the season with a blistering strike against Columbus on July 15.
“He is a student of the game,” said former West Springfield coach Dennis Patrick. “I think the reason he’s playing at this level now is not because he’s the fastest, he’s not the strongest, but he’s one of the smartest and most adaptable people.”
Carroll didn’t appear in a single match as a rookie. But he’s now acknowledged as one of United’s hardest working players. He made his first two appearances for the U.S. national team last year, and although he’s has never been big talker, Carroll’s presence has grown significantly in the D.C. locker room.
“He’s definitely taken more of a leadership role,” said United midfielder Josh Gros.
Carroll’s All-Star snub won’t result in any recognizable frustration. Instead, he’ll process the reasons why and work harder to make it more difficult to get omitted the next time around.
“He doesn’t really show it,” said younger brother and United teammate Jeff Carroll. “With family, he keeps it inside. Everyone knows he’s [upset], but he’s not going to let it show or affect his play. He keeps those thoughts very close with himself, and doesn’t let that get out. I think he deserves to be an All-Star. He’s worked his butt off.”
Grass roots
» Brian Carroll was selected 11th overall in the 2003 MLS SuperDraft by D.C. United.
» Carroll led West Springfield to the Virginia state finals in 1998.
» At Wake Forest, Carroll set the school record for most assists in a game with three.
» His younger brother, Pat, plays at West Virginia University.
