Catching up with the future: How the US U-23 team is faring

It’s been about six weeks since the United States U-23 team returned from Nashville after failing to qualify for the 2012 Olympics. 13 of the 20 players on the roster call MLS home. How are they doing since then? Well, it’s a mixed bag for sure. Some are thriving, while others (especially the goalies) seem to be still shaking off the shocking loss. I will say that it is encouraging to see a certain forward finally back on the field.

The players:

Bill Hamid: Struggled for the US before hurting his ankle against El Salvador and hasn’t seen the field for D.C. United as Joe Willis took over the top spot. Could his return come soon? (Edit: He started against Toronto and made 4 saves.)

Sean Johnson: Started the past 6 games, allowing 6 goals; looked shaky on Wednesday, however, as only RSL’s inability to finish kept them out of the net

Kofi Sarkodie: Played 8 minutes for Houston

Zarek Valentin: Started 5 of Montreal’s 7 games; continues to be great on Twitter as @DubbZV

Ike Opara: 2 starts, 3 substitute appearances in San Jose’s 7 matches

Sheanon Williams: Started 5 Union games

Perry Kitchen: Played 90 minutes in all of United’s games

Amobi Okugo: 1 start, 2 subs in the Union’s 5 matches

Michael Stephens: 1 start, 3 subs in 7 games

Freddy Adu: Started the last 4 Union matches; 1 goal

Brek Shea: Scored 3 goals in his first 6 games (all starts); played 20 minutes in the last two as he battles turf toe

Teal Bunbury: 0 goals in 5 substitute appearences

Juan Agudelo: Saw his first time for the Red Bull over the weekend and played a full half against Houston Wednesday night