Plenty of fresh faces for D.C. United this season
After a second straight offseason in which nearly half of the D.C. United roster was turned over — this time around including head coach Tom Soehn — some players were admittedly nervous coming into the year.
But it’s more than just United’s six consecutive victories to conclude preseason that have them excited about their potential in 2010.
“It’s looking at what we started with and where we are, and I think that how we’ve progressed is incredible,” said goalkeeper Troy Perkins. “I remember coming back from the national team camp and talking to Chris Pontius. He was like, ‘Man, we’re going to struggle this year. I’m really worried.’ I was like, ‘just give it time,’ and now these last three weeks have been exceptional.”
With Curt Onalfo in place as the new coach, and with Brazilians Luciano Emilio and Fred, as well as Argentinian playmaker Christian G?mez all gone, the establishment of a new attacking identity falls on Santino Quaranta and newly acquired El Salvadoran national team midfielder Christian Castillo. With Ben Olsen on the coaching staff, Jaime Moreno alone carries the title of player legend, entering his and Major League Soccer’s 15th season.
“I just feel like the overall feel is totally different in the locker room,” said midfielder Clyde Simms. “I think that’s coming from the staff. I feel like it’s a little more relaxed in the locker room, and at the same time, we know when we’re training that it’s all business.”
