Prost Amerika video columnist Alan Hinton didn’t hold back in sharing his weekly Hinton Unleashed comments on the world of soccer. The former Derby County winger touched on the latest doings in the English Premier League, Major League Soccer and the upcoming U.S. Men’s National Team clash against Mexico.
English Premier League
“Mourinho, can he recover?”
Hinton noted the tremendous pressure faced by Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho. Chelsea currently sits barely above the relegation zone in 17th place. The implications are immense given the Blues’ move next year to Wembley Stadium (90,000 seating capacity), while Stamford Bridge is undergoing renovations.
Manager Brendan Rodgers is under scrutiny for Liverpool’s early season results. Manchester United’s Louis van Gaal recently met with his team to address concerns about his management style.
Major League Soccer
“Beckham deserves a lot of credit for the success of Major League Soccer.”
Hinton credited David Beckham for the increasing growth and popularity of MLS. With his Miami franchise ready to start play in 2018, Beckham is attempting to lure Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney to play for his team.
Hinton touched on this weekend’s clash between Seattle Sounders FC and Vancouver Whitecaps. He also commented on the Golden Boot competition between Sporting KC’s Kei Kamara and Toronto FC forward Giovinco.
Confederations Cup Oct. 10 qualifier: USMNT vs Mexico
“I’d love to ask Klinsmann: ‘If this was the World Cup Final and the U.S. was playing Brazil, who would you play in goal? I’d guarantee you he’d say Tim Howard.'”
The former English international criticized USMNT manager Jurgen Klinsmann’s decision making. He felt Klinsmann should immediately name current Everton keeper Tim Howard as his starter for the Oct. 10 match to determine the CONCACAF representative in the 2017 Confederations Cup.
