USMNT vs Italy Preview

With Jurgen Klinsmann's side still searching for the right tactical system, USMNT prepare to face a tough challenge against Italy, another European opponents after Belgium and France, which both beat Americans 1-0. USMNT is without forward Landon Donovan and with defender Timmy Chandler and midfielders Jose Torres and Jermaine Jones who all suffered minor injuries. With also defender Oguchi Onewu and midfielder Stuart Holden still out with long-term injuries, Sacha Kljestan and Brek Shea were shuttled in. The biggest challenge for Klinsmann will be to continue trying to build a possession-minded, attacking style soccer considering Klinsmann's weakened bunch of midfielders. The Klinsmann's idea to keep the ball and control the tempo playing with a high defensive line is interesting, but hard to play without athletic central defenders. Bob Bradley used to get killed for being more defensive-minded. Klinsmann works in the opposite direction. Also, the question about what Klinsmann does at left back remains in place. Timothy Chandler's absence leaves Klinsmann without a potential starter. Fabian Johnson, who has been at left back for Hoffenheim, is the best option for the Yanks. Jonathan Spector is another one.