Sports: Soccer

Do you also have questions about D.C. United? MLS? National team? Europe?

Washington Post soccer writer Steven Goff was online Wednesday, May 10, at noon ET to talk soccer.

The transcript follows.

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Steven Goff: Greetings from Cary, N.C., where the U.S. team has gathered for the start of World Cup training camp. Practice doesn't actually begin until tomorrow. I'm just here for a couple days to work on some features.

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Greensboro, N.C.: Mr. Goff,

Sorry if this is a dumb question, but do you know if the public will be able to watch any of the men's practices in Cary, or is it only open for media people?

Steven Goff: Armed guards will chase you away!!! Beware!!

Seriously, I don't think media people are invited to watch practice either. I'll find out tomorrow, when training begins.

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Takoma Park, Md.: How about taking a guess at Italy's roster for the World Cup?

Steven Goff: All 23? No.

But it's looking like Vieri will not be included because of a knee injury. Too bad: He was so looking forward to blowing scoring opportunities in yet another World Cup.

:-)

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Stevan from Gaithersburg: June is approaching, and I'm sure you've got your passport

and press passes all in order. (Maybe even a few

butterflies packed away, too.)

Two questions:

1.] Who else from the Post will you be travelling with to

Germany?

B.] Who else of the "Reporters Who Cover Soccer" are you

looking forward to seeing again?

Viele glNì safe travels, and watch out for that stark bier.

Steven Goff: Here's the lineup:

--me

--Camille Powell, former Dartmouth player who helped cover the 02 World Cup

--Jason LaCanfora, Redskins beat writer who loves the other futbol

I have many friends on the soccer beat and look forward to sharing a bier or two. And perhaps a brat.

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Arlington, Va.: A lot of soccer pundits got their panties in a twist (I'm look at you Eric Wynalda) over the selection of Brian Ching and omission of Taylor Twellman from the WC roster. But why is no one complaining about Josh Wolff getting a place over Twellman? What has Wolff done in the last two or three years that justifies his place in the team? I would have selected Twellman over him in a heartbeat. Wolff has had one dismal National Team performance after another for at least the last year.

Steven Goff: In MLS, I'll take Twellman over Wolff. On the international scene, against world-class opponents, I'll take Wolff. Wolff does more things and has World Cup experience. Just my opinion, but I don't think Twellman could score against Italy or the Czechs. Wolff might not score either, but he can create.

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Washington, D.C.: Is DC United still planning to play a friendly against a European or South American side (perhaps in mid June)? There was a rumor of discussions with Barcelona, but I understand those fell through.

Steven Goff: United was close to finalizing a game with Celtic on July 12 at RFK. They are also hoping to play Liverpool on Aug. 2 at RFK. I should have updates on both possible games this weekend.

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Olsen: How bad is Ben Olsen's hip flexor?

Steven Goff: Olsen, You should know that you are okay and will report to U.S. camp.

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Arlington, Va.: USA over Italy 4-0 in Germany?

Steven Goff: In what sport?

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Arlington, Va.: Given the level of Nationals coverage on TV, I suppose I should count my lucky stars that DC United is on at all, but is it too much to hope for a little more production value? A case in point was last week's game and the Erpen penalty. The announcers immediately raised doubts, but the only shot they had of the play was so far off that the only thing the viewer could make out was that Erpen didn't think it was a penalty.

Steven Goff: MLS does all of its own production. It seems much better than past years, but still nowhere near the quality of Europe. Wait until you see the production of World Cup matches -- incredible. And if you have access to high definition, I highly recommend watching the World Cup on it.

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Germantown, Md: Steve,

Kudos again for your scoop on the player salaries.

The Commish, Se Garber was on y'all's radio station this morning. It sounded as if he were at the station, rather than calling in from NY. Is he in town for something other than talking up the league?

Steven Goff: Thanks, Germantown.

Garber is in Washington today as part of his travels around MLS to meet with players, coaches, club officials, etc.

We have a reporter there and, if he makes any news, we will write about it. However, it might be more MLS fluff.

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Herndon, Va.: What do you think of Walcott's selection to England's World Cup team? As far as I can tell, Walcott has seen limited time in the EPL and also limited time while out on loan. He's never been capped by England. Is Sven a mad man or an evil genius? Will Walcott even play?

Steven Goff: Fascinating choice. I can't imagine Walcott would play, but with injuries, who know.

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Washington, D.C.: With Eddie Lewis playing next weekend in England, does his absence affect his chance to start at left-fullback?

Steven Goff: Not unless he gets hurt.

Lewis will report to camp today, return to England sometime next week to play in the promotion final against Watford and then rejoin the U.S. team for the friendlies. I guess it's possible he won't start in the May 23 game because of travel affects.

Steven Goff: effects, not affects, sorry...

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Mount Pleasant, Washington, D.C.: I know, I know, a stadium question ... zzzzz.

But, rumor has it that the land swap is being held up by a Senator who is opposing it on principle and that efforts to resolve his/her issues have been unsuccesful. Any insights? This goes beyond United, and I'd sure like to know who the Senator is.

Thanks.

Steven Goff: The Post's Metro section is overseeing the politics behind the stadium plan. I'm really not following it too closely. Once the project is formally announced, I'll wake up.

Until then, zzzzzzzzzz.

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Washington, D.C.: So I assume you'll be the Post's "embedded" reporter for the U.S. team in Germany? When will you start following them around? During training camp or when they leave for Germany? Who else from The Post is covering the event?

Steven Goff: In Germany, I'll be with the U.S. team starting June 2 in Hamburg. The Post will also cover the three friendlies in late-May.

Camille Powell will also be with the U.S. team at the World Cup matches.

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Bethesda, Md.: Steven, I am sure you have followed the WC team selection. What do you think about leaving Twellman off? He scored many goals in the World Cup qualifiers.

Steven Goff: Twellman scored one goal in World Cup qualifying, and it came in the meaningless finale against Panama.

I'm not piling on here; I like Twellman a lot and I think he's one of the most electrifying scorers in MLS history. But clearly Arena didn't think his game is suited for the World Cup.

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Steve in Chicago: Do you have a vote for the Hall of Fame? How did you vote?

If you don't have a vote, what would your choices be anyway?

I'm trying to figure out the geniuses who keep voting for Ted Eck and Mike Burns. I want them sent to Guantanamo.

Steven Goff: This just in: MLS has expanded to Guantanamo.

Eck and Burns will start.

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Bethesda, Md.: Steven,

Beckham has been hinting over the past year that he is coming to america to play futbol. Any truth to this, or do you think he will be washed up when he gets here?

Steven Goff: It sounds like it's going to happen at some point. Which in my opinion, is a nightmare. Yeah, he would bring some more mainstream attention to MLS, but it's not like he would show up and score every game. People would turn out for the novelty of it, marvel at his free kicks and crosses, shrug and go home.

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Burke, Va.: Steven.... How good is Brazil for the 2006 world cup? Are they better than the 2002 WC champ team? Many prognosticators think Brazil will not win it because it's in Europe and hardly any foreign teams win on European Turf.... thoughts.....pete

Steven Goff: Brazil is the clear favorite, but there are many factors working against them: Cup in Europe, intense pressure and expectations, older outside backs (Roberto Carlos, Cafu), etc.

I'll still take Brazil to win it, but questions abound...

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Stanton Park, D.C.: Hi Steven...love your (increased!) coverage!

I noticed in today's article about the MNT training camp that you mentioned that they'll be having a closed scrimmage against Charleston Battery. The interesting thing I noted was that you called Charleston a "minor league" team. I realize that such characterization is not incorrect, however, don't you think that the US pro soccer system has gotten sophisticated enough to call Charleston a "Second Division" team?

On that note, do you ever think that we'll ever get to a point that promotion/relegation between three divisions is a reality?

Thanks!

Steven Goff: Yeah, you're probably right, we should call it Second Division. Perhaps I'll start doing that soon. Thanks for the tip.

No, promotion/relegation will never happen. Imagine if, say, Charleston got promoted and then received an MLS invoice for $20 million and a requirement to play in a 20,000-seat stadium? Not possible. American pro soccer is different, and it will always be.

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D, D.C.: The greatest sporting event in the world is imminent, and I couldn't be happier. Any more details on the plans for the US pre-WC camp? I'll be in Raleigh alot during the next month and would love the chance to catch a scrimmage or, well, anything.

Whattyagot?

Steven Goff: Sorry! Practices are closed, although I'm sure you could sneak a peak through the fences. To be honest, not much to see.

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Stafford, Va.: Why does DC United always seem to have a problem when they go to Colorado, even when the Rapids are horrible? Do they just have DC's number?

Steven Goff: Gotta be the thin air, man.

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Frederick, Md.: Zzzzzzzzz?

Steven Goff: z

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Falls Church, Va.: Steve, thanks as always for your coverage. Any insight into what Nowak was thinking with his personnel in the Colorado game (Walker starting, Esky pushed back into a midfield position)?

Also, how bad is Jamil's injury?

Steven Goff: I was as surprised as you were.

Walker should be okay for Saturday. Simms getting better, but still questionable. Rimando has been working out and could be in uniform next week.

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Arlington, Va.: I see that United is trying to organize an exhibition with Celtic and/or Liverpool. Why would these world class teams agree to play on an awful pitch at RFK? Is there any talk of moving the game elsewhere?

Steven Goff: Apparently, Celtic and Liverpool have said they wouldn't have a problem playing at RFK. To be honest, despite the appearance, the field isn't that bad.

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Chicago, Ill.: After Onyewu, aren't there a lot of questions at the back for the U.S? Pope's no spring chicken . . . Gibbs has been injured . . . Conrad seems like more of a locker room guy than someone who can handle speed on the international level . . . Bocanegra's been spotty at the club and international level . . .

Steven Goff: You've summed it up perfectly -- no clear choice to play alongside Onyewu. My hunch is that Arena will go with experience (Pope), but he does have the option of moving Mastroeni back or playing a 3-5-2. We'll see...

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Washington, D.C.: According to the recently published FIFA world rankings, the USA now ranks as the fourth best national team in the world. With this in mind, perhaps a casual fan of soccer might think that the USA should now breeze to the semi-final round of the World Cup. While I know you think the FIFA world rankings are meaningless, what does Arena and the members of the USA squad believe?

Steven Goff: They, too, thinks it's complete nonsense. The concern, which I have discussed before, is that the casual sports fan is going to see that world ranking and EXPECT the United States to reach the semifinals. When they don't make it, there will be a natural sense of disappointment and questions as to why the Americans "failed."

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Fredericksburg, Va.: Eric Wynalda sure has been vocal in his criticism of both Bruce Arena and Alexi Lalas recently. Is he just trying to make some noice, or is there some personal animosity between them?

Steven Goff: Eric is nuts. He admits it.

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Bethesda, Md.: Steven,

What is Bruce going to do with the midfield? Convey, Beasley, Claudio, Deuce, Pablo, Benny all have been playing really well. But not all of them can start. We all know Claudio is starting....but who else?

Steven Goff: How about Beasley on the left, Reyna in the middle, Mastroeni deep and Dempsey on the right (Donovan at withdrawn forward). Or Donovan off on the right, with McBride and Johnson up top. Or perhaps he'll use five midfielders.

Keep in mind, you might end up seeing three different lineups in the first round, depending on the opponent, injuries, yellow/red cards, etc.

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Bethesda, Md.: Good afternoon Steven. Any word on what the name of the new Toronto franchise will be? Any word on whether anyone at MLS realizes how pathetic and childish these Euro ripoff names are?

My thoughts: It appears every other league in the world is comfortable with the naming traditions of their own country. Unfortunately, we have to take names with 100 years of history, someone else's history, and stick them where they make no sense. It's just as bad as Wiz, Burn and Clash. Or worse. At least those were our ideas.

Thank you.

Steven Goff: Yes, Toronto will have a Euro-centric name: Inter Toronto FC was being discussed, I believe. Sounds good to me, especially in Toronto, which is basically a European city anyway.

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Alexandria, Va.: Hey Steve,

Forgive me if I've been out of the international soccer scene for a while but I was wondering why Tony Sanneh wasn't in contention for a spot on the World Cup roster? He was such a terrific player in South Korea in the American backfield that I was wondering if he was injured. Thanks for the enlightenment.

Steven Goff: Tony Sanneh had a great World Cup in 02, but at this point, he is well past his prime and hasn't played much in MLS the last two seasons.

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Silver Spring, Md.: I work in an office building close to the Crown Plaza hotel on Georgia Ave in Silver Spring and wanted to know if there are any bars in the area that will be broadcasting next week's Champs League Final around here, so my coworkers and I can go watch it during "lunchtime"...Thanks

Steven Goff: Anyone have any suggestions for soccer viewing in Silver Spring? I do not.

If you are stuck in your office and have computer access, check out www.uefa.com for running commentary.

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Juneau, Alaska: So who is gonna play D Mid for Togo? But then who cares, cause do you think they could beat T+T?

If you were a betting man, at what odds would you bet on the MNT to win the WC (50-1, 100-1, 500-1, or....)?

Do you have any background that would allow us to respect your views on German beer?

Steven Goff: Togo questions should be directed to Jon "Togo Togo" DeNunzio at denunzioj@washpost.com

The USA -- to WIN the World Cup? 500 to 1.

My German beer experience was limited to two visits the last six months, but I plan to do extensive research this summer.

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College Park, Md.: I read recently that German Officials are going to be checking each ticket matches the name of the person who is holding it before the matches this summer.

For those of us headed to Germany, what does this means in terms of delays/crowd trouble/etc? I have legit tickets with my name on them, but I cant see how they're going to get people into the stadiums unless they open 3 or 4 hours before the game!

Steven Goff: Get to the stadium VERY EARLY! especially if you have tickets to matches at the start of the tournament.

It will be interesting to see how this policy plays out; FIFA is very worried.

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Baltimore, Md.: Any other kiddies coming in besides Michael Bradley? Is he the 14th alternate?

Steven Goff: At the moment, just Bradley.

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Butte, Mont.: What's the projected return date of Santino Quaranta? Also which reserve player is most likely to see playing time with the big team?

Steven Goff: Who?

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Rough and Ready, Calif.: I hear from the voices in my head that DC United is looking to trade Quaranta. Any truth to those rumors? Or should I go back on my medication?

Steven Goff: They had trade talks during the offseason about Quaranta. Columbus was interested.

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Arlington, Va.: I'm a United fan and am distraught at the signs that Ruud will likely be gone. Saha is always an injury risk and Rossi is wet behind the ears.

What strikers are on the market that may replace #10?

Steven Goff: Adriano, perhaps.

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Must see group stage matches: On the subject of must-see matches in the group stage, y'all wrote:

"June 18

France vs. South Korea

It will be interesting to see if the Koreans can do well in a World Cup away from home."

Please note that it will also be interesting to see if the French can do well away from home.

Steven Goff: Ah, good point!

I'm not very optimistic about France's chances this year.

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Pikesville, Md.: Steven, The US roster for the World Cup includes 5 African-American players. It's nice to see that kind of representation in a game which people think is made up of suburban white kids and immigrants.

Steven Goff: Yes, interesting observation. Soccer is definitely changing in this country.

Look at DC United: Wilson, Adu, Walker, Simms, Stokes, deRoux...

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Alexandria, Va.: How can I possibly convince ESPN to cover more international soccer? It was mind boggling several weeks ago when I tried to catch Arsenal-Villa Real only to find ESPN2 choosing to cover a jump roping competition. Seriously, what are they thinking? What can I do?

Steven Goff: You would have to call them or write them; public pressure could change things.

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Falls Church, Va.: There's been progress on the baseball stadium, so United's should break ground next Tuesday, right?

Steven Goff: Yes, next Tuesday. I'll meet ya at Poplar Point. Bring a tent and a year's supply of HoHos.

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Bethesda, Md.: Being a MD alum, I was wondering how you think Jason Garey is going to do in the MLS and possibly for the US team some day. Do you think he has the talent? I saw he scored his first goal this passed weekend, maybe Twellmen and Garey one day up front for the U.S.?

Steven Goff: Garey scored his first career goal last weekend, but he's got an awful long way to go before he can be mentioned in U.S. national team discussions. We'll see how he progesses, but at the moment, there are at least a dozen U.S. forwards ahead of him.

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Falls Church, Va.: I hear Bruce Arena is going to be controlling access to his pre-world cup camp very tightly. How much, if any, coverage can we expect of the national team while they're in camp?

Steven Goff: Unless someone gets hurt, I don't think you'll see or hear much from training camp. Most of the reporters planning to come to Cary are here to work on features as part of the build-up to the Cup.

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Bethesda, Md.: Steven,

Why do you think Bruce decided to put an injured John O'brien but not an injured Steve Ralston. Ralston does so much work on the right side but with tracking back and his crosses.

Steven Goff: O'Brien is a much more seasoned international player than Ralston and is able to play outside as well as in the middle of the park. Ralston is strictly a wing.

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McLean, Va.: We are only a few games into the season, but who has impressed you the most with United? My vote goes for Gros.

Steven Goff: Carroll and Gros.

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Washington, D.C.: Will ESPN or any other Website be offering a WC package where you can watch the games online?

Thanks.

Steven Goff: I doubt it. I can't imagine FIFA would allow live internet viewing.

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Arlington, Va.: Crystal ball Q. Is Freddy Adu a lock to make the 2010 WC team? Looking ahead to then, who else playing today that isn't on the squad for 06 makes the team in 2010.

Steven Goff: A lock? Little too early for that.

I like Chris Rolfe, Tim Howard and Brian Carroll for 2010, too.

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Bethesda, Md.: I have this sinking feeling that Jaime Moreno is to Peter Novak as Marco Etcheverry was to Ray Hudson: an untouchable icon that will be on the pitch for 90 minutes every match regardless of the quality of his play. I know he draws lots of attention from defenses and supposedly frees up other players, but frankly he has underperformed so far this season. He won't shoot, he tries to dribble too much and gets dispossessed, and he has to husband his energy just to make it through the match. What does Peter see that clueless fans like me don't?

Steven Goff: Ever since Moreno's comeback, the question has been: How much longer can he go?

He hasn't impacted matches this year like he did in the past two seasons, but he still holds the ball well and has incredible vision. Having said that, it will be interesting to see if Nowak benches him at any point. I doubt it.

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Arlington, Va.: I will carry your bags, pencils, lap top, and even turn down your bed. Take me with you to the Cup!

Steven Goff: Get in line, mate!

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Cubicle: Hi Steve,

With Olsen away I assume Simms will playing holding, but what if he gets knacked? Namoff? He's got that hernia and can't be counted on even if he was in game shape.

Is the job Perkins to lose or does Rimando get it back when fit?

And is the Filomeno era over? Thanks

Steven Goff: Simms is the first choice to replace Olsen. However, he's been hurt, so Namoff is the next option.

Perkins has been pretty good, but Rimando will soon need to get into a regular season match. It's a long season -- plenty of time for both of them to play.

Filomeno hasn't done much, but the team likes him a lot and will give him opportunities over the next couple months.

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Cambridge, Mass.: Is Lionel Messi the next Maradona? Can he lead Argentina to a world cup title?

Steven Goff: Can't wait to see Messi in the World Cup. Would Pekerman dare start him???

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Elland Road: Ha! Three shots on goal (maybe 4) and they score 2, on the road none the less. Fear the Whites baby, fear the Whites!

Steven Goff: The Leeds United fan club checking in.

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Baltimore, Md.: Just wanted to get your opinion of Jamil Walker. Everytime he steps on the pitch I have been extremely impressed with his poise and blazing speed. I would imagine that if he was with another team that he would be instant starter. Where did he come from, and what will take for him to crack the national team after the World Cup is complete? Thank you

Steven Goff: Walker helped San Jose win an MLS title a few years ago, but then faded out of their long-term plans and eventually was picked by Chivas, I believe, in the expansion draft. He was discarded and picked up by DCU last year. His finish against the Red Bulls a few weeks ago was outstanding and he has the speed to make an impact. That's why he got the start last weekend. IMO, he's most effective coming off the bench. National team? No, sorry.

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Owings Mills: Any news on the possibility of a rights fee for MLS broadcasts in 2007?

Steven Goff: Yes, it appears it will be announced soon.

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Bethesda, Md.: Who plays up top with McBride in the WC? Or is he going to run solo and have Donavan play an attacking middy?

Steven Goff: I'm thinking Donovan playing withdrawn behind McBride, but Arena could pair up McBride with Johnson.

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Cary, N.C.: Hi Steve,

Is the US Team training in Cary closed to the public for the whole time?

Also, I'm reading some of the English Blogs and they're pretty arrogant about England's chances when compared to the Team USA. What are your thoughts on their chances with the recent injuries to Rooney and possibly Owens in Group Play and the odds that they will advance as compare to the US?

Steven Goff: English fans always think their team is going to win the World Cup, although this year, with that extraordinary midfield (Gerrard, Lampard, Beckham and J. Cole), there is hope. The injury to Rooney, however, was devastating and there are still questions about Michael Owen's fitness.

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Washington, D.C: Please tell my delusional Arsenal supporting friends that while Henry is a superstar, he will be fighting against a TEAM of superstars on May 17th. Whats your prediction for the score on that one? I say 3-1 to Barca!!

(Also, Vamos United!)

Steven Goff: Barcelona is the better team and should win. I'll go with 2-1.

However, don't forget what happened last year...

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Herndon, Va.: I'm starting to hear the "G" word (genius) applied to Bruce Arena. What's your take on that?

Steven Goff: Let's see how he fares in Germany before making any bold proclamations...

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Bethesda, Md.: Steven,

Do you feel that Bruce could of used some younger up and coming talent on the team such as Marvell Wynn and Chris Rolfe. This i feel would help the team now and for the next world cup getting our up and coming players time. Both to these guys have WC ability

Steven Goff: Wynne and Rolfe aren't ready to contribute in a World Cup now. Give em a few years...

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Arlington, Va.: Steve

I have a feeling that Eddie Johnson is going to have a "break-out" in the WC...what do you think. See you in Germany!

Steven Goff: Arena would love to see Johnson break out in Germany. Depends if he's fit, in form and receives enough playing time.

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Bethesda, Md.: Hey Steve:

Shouldn't you also be taking Dan Steinberg with you so that he can blog about the cheese in Germany? Of if the cheese isn't up to his standard, the beer? His blog from the Olympics was the best thing about The Post's coverage. -Not that your coverage won't be great, only that you'll be so busy with the "meat" of the games that you'll need a vegetarian for the fun stuff.]

Steven Goff: Bring on Steinberg!!

Actually, Dan will probably end up covering United quite a bit while I am away.

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Hanover, Pa.: Steve: Awesome job as usual. People online always whine about ESPN hating soccer. But the "Behind the Scenes" video for Bruce's appearance showed nothing but respect. They may not love it like you and I, but they weren't spitting on Bruce. Is the "hatred" for soccer in the media overblown? Is it more apathy than hatred? Or ignorance?

Steven Goff: Soccer fans are very sensitive about their sport. Some of their complaints are justified, some are just foolish.

Believe it or not, some Redskins fans don't think The Post covers their team or the NFL enough. Everyone wants more.

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Steven Goff: Gotta wrap it up, folks. Thanks so much for all your questions. As usual, it's been fun. Feel free to reach me anytime at goffs@washpost.com and be sure to check out DeNunzio's World Cup blog at washingtonpost.com

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