Young Players to Watch in the World Cup: Group G
By Young Kim
Aron Johannsson (ST, United States):
The cautionary tale of Jozy Altidore makes many question the legitimacy of Aron Johannsson and his ability to be a success for the United States. Altidore was a hit for AZ Alkmaar, but his move to Sunderland has produced some of the worst striking performances seen in the Premier League in years.
Johannsson is not Altidore however – he is far more complete, more tactically aware, boasts better technical ability and far greater awareness in the final third. He tallied 26 goals and 7 assists in 53 total appearances for Alkmaar, but this should be the summer where Johannsson solidifies his place for the United States rather than looking to leave his club.
Scoring goals for fun in Holland must be taken with a grain of salt, and he will have to prove himself there for multiple seasons in a row before he should look to move away. With Altidore struggling and Chris Wondolowski on the wrong side of 30, Johannsson could well prove to be the diamond in the rough. – Drew Thompson
Given the fact that Altidore hasn’t scored since the Bush administration, perhaps it’s time for Jurgen Klinsmann to give Aron Johannsson a starting nod at forward. The Iceman bears a striking resemblance to former Iceland international Eidur Gudjohnson both facially and playing-wise.
Johannsson thrives off playing with a partner up top and needs the space to drill his trademark right-foot shot from a good 15 m distance. He’s also capable of finishing with finesse and boasts decent pace for a player his size.
He has had a run of good form in the Eresdivisie, scoring 17 goals and nabbing 6 assists for AZ Alkmaar this past season, and looks to beat his record next season after signing an extension. However, a transfer to a mid-table club in the English Premier league like Stoke City is not too far off for the 23-year-old. – Young Kim