Defensive DPs (like Richard Dunne) as keys to MLS success

I know it must be difficult for MLS clubs to “sell” the concept of center backs as Designated Players.

But I say, “So what?”  Because selling “Wins” ain’t so tough, is it?

More teams should aim a few more DP dollars on the defensive side. You know what they say about defense, where championships are won and lost.

It’s finally moving a teeny bit in that direction, but almost every DP is still an attacker (a striker, a dynamic winger, a playmaker, a two-way man that leans toward offense, etc.)

But show me an MLS Cup winner, and I’ll show you a team with a dandy “D.” For instance, center back Omar Gonzalez was the most important man on the field as the Galaxy defended its MLS crown last month.

Jeff Larentowicz and Pablo Mastroeni screened Colorado’s back line brilliantly en route to MLS Cup 2010. How about that RSL center back combo Jamison Olave and Nat Borchers back in 2009; pretty tough to get around, eh?

In 2008, Columbus Crew center back Chad Marshall was still at the top of his game. The Dynamo championship teams of 2006 and 2007 were built around two essential elements: “De-Ro” and “De-Fense.”

So, you get the message. Yes, these champions had some wonderful attackers (Landon Donovan, David Beckham, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, Dwayne De Rosario, for instance), but the defenses behind those fine fellows were all of the hale and hearty variety.

Which is why a story like this excites me: It’s the next bit of speculation about whether Irish international Richard Dunne might find his way to MLS.

The Independent wonders whether Dunne can get healthy enough to find his way out of Aston Villa and into a Galaxy or Red Bulls shirt? In New York, he would be an upgrade over Markus Holgersson. And what a combo the new men in charge would create at Red Bull Arena if Dunne and Jamison Olave could make their way to reliable health.

Speaking of commanding combos: what about Dunne and Gonzalez in Los Angeles? Clearly, there are lots of moving parts there. The Galaxy has one DP slot at the moment (Beckham’s), and Dunne may not fit AEG’s wow-wow requirement for filling that one. But, what if Landon Donovan extends his sabbatical? Hmmm.

And then there’s Gonzalez himself, who has a year remaining on his MLS deal. He may well require DP money to re-up. Or, could it eventually be that Dunne or someone like him is required as the emerging U.S. international takes his talents overseas?

See, lots of moving parts. But it makes for great conversation.