PlayBeautiful

A Focus On Fabian Johnson: The Spark of USMNT

Before August 25, 2011 we were unfamiliar with him, but all that has quickly changed. The inclusion of Fabian Johnson into the U.S. Men’s National Team has bore sweet, delicious fruit. A player I can’t imagine our team without was overlooked by many. But not anymore.

There were few who were skeptical about Johnson’s effect on the team. Was he really worth all the trouble Klinsmann had exercised to secure his services?

As it stood, not many people were convinced with Jürgen Klinsmann’s experimental approach. He drew in critics with his development of a winning formula incorporating more German-American players. It was an attempt to give the United States an identity in world football by giving equal opportunities. Whether you agree with Klinsmann’s methods or not, this thought process brought in the likes of Fabian Johnson to a side that is shaping its identity one game at a time.

“I’m used to left back. I played the whole season there with Hoffenheim. It wouldn’t be a (big) difference to me if I were to start there or the midfield. I just try to do my best at every position I play.” (The Associated Press)

Anyone who watches the USMNT knows that Fabian Johnson has become accustomed to the left back position. It’s where he is the most comfortable because it’s where he cemented his role at his club team, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. When I see Fabian Johnson’s name in the starting lineup, I feel calm. I know he’ll work hard on the pitch and man the flank. He has pace, stamina, and makes use of his space.

When Klinsmann utilized him in midfield, it initially through me in for a loop. Johnson is an attack-minded fullback, but did he have the creative vision needed to thrive as a left winger?

Fabian Johnson has made 4 starts in midfield for USA (vs. Slovenia, Germany, Jamaica, Panama) and the team has won all four of these matches. Not only that, Jozy Altidore has scored in all 4 games under Klinsmann where Johnson started in midfield (via @BrianSciaretta). His standout performance by far was against Panama in the Hexagonal Round. USMNT supporters held their breath in the 3rd minute when the first chance fell to Johnson himself who attempted a volley. However, the moment of truth came when Michael Bradley charged with the ball, Johnson read the run well alongside Bradley, picked up the pass, and shot it skillfully to Altidore who tapped it in. The opening goal was from Jozy and assisted by Fabian. USA went on to win the game 2-0 at CenturyLink Field in Seattle. This match was a testament of how versatile a player Fabian Johnson is. USA has the potential to operate like a smooth machine because they’re capable of playing as one cohesive unit. The mentality starts with the players to build this within a team.


Jürgen Klinsmann recognizes Johnson’s versatility and believes,

“If Fabian Johnson can play very effectively at left back or left winger, he can also play in the middle. We need to figure out what is best for this group.” (The Associated Press)

This is an interesting comment by Klinsmann as I never thought of Johnson playing in the middle. Klinsmann is infamous for tinkering with the starting lineup, but he is beginning to establish some consistency. It’ll be something to watch out for if Klinsmann further experiments in friendly matches. Klinsmann should nurture Johnson’s foray as a left winger because he offers creativity and width where it’s desperately needed. Solidifying this position means he can only get better in that role, which in turn will bring stability to the team. The bottom line is winning and you can’t get that without goals.

Cut to the game between USA-Honduras at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah. Honduras were obviously a different team than Panama, but it didn’t take away from Fabian Johnson’s performance. He featured as a left back due to DaMarcus Beasley being suspended for yellow card accumulation. In the first half alone Fabian Johnson contributed to at least three goal-scoring opportunities involving Eddie Johnson and Clint Dempsey. Fabian Johnson’s pace was what separated him from the other players on the pitch. He handled some great crosses with his left-foot and his excellent first touches came from his right foot. A goal was bound to happen.

The game-winning goal came in the second half. It was none other than the winning combination of Fabian Johnson and Jozy Altidore to make our dreams of going to Brazil a reality. Fabian picked up a swift pass from Graham Zusi and fed it to Jozy Altidore who seamlessly hit the back of the net.

The more I watch Fabian Johnson for the Stars and Stripes, the more I come to appreciate his work-rate, technical ability, and refined quality. He is an important asset for the USMNT who has quickly sold me with his skill and mindset to read the game. I have no doubts that he’ll play an integral part for the national side.

“Trying to do everything right is hard to do. But I try to give my best and help the team in every minute of the game.” -Fabian Johnson

Written by: Goral Patel

Follow me on Twitter: @goralpatel