Four years ago D.C. United midfielder Clyde Simms couldn’t watch most World Cup games. He was working long hours packing tobacco at the Lorillard cigarette factory in Greensboro, N.C.
But he’ll be paying close attention when the2006 World Cup starts next week, knowing he’s got a great chance to earn a spot with the U.S. team in 2010.
“I never thought I even would’ve been in the pool for 2006 so it’s pretty amazing,” said Simms, who made his first appearance for the U.S. last year and had just his second start of the current season for United in Saturday’s win over Kansas City.
Foot and hamstring injuries have slowed his progress after last year’s meteoric rise from the minor-league Richmond Kickers. But on Saturday against the Wizards, Simms earned a penalty kick that led to D.C.’s second goal.
The called appeared questionable, but Simms maintains contact played a part in causing to him tumble to the ground.
“There was definitely a little contact, when I went to cock back, in my heel,” said Simms. “It wasn’t much, but anytime you’re going to strike the ball, any touch will throw you off a little bit.”
Notes
With his next goal, United forward Jaime Moreno, who was named MLS Player of the Week, will be the second player in MLS history to reach 100 career goals. Real Salt Lake forward Jason Kreis is the league’s all-time leader with 103.
D.C. United is expected to announce today that it will host Scottish Premier League champion Celtic on July 12 at RFK Stadium.
United midfielder Ben Olsen is back in the capital on a short break from the U.S. national team before it departs for World Cup in Germany. He will be honored in a send-off ceremony at halftime of tonight’s match.
Columbus Crew (3-3-2) at D.C. United (6-1-3)
Where: RFK Stadium
When: 7:30 p.m. tonight
TV: None
Radio: WMET-1160 AM,
WACA-1540 AM
