Part II
The Portland Timbers are getting all the pieces to contend in what looks to be a contested 2022. As many squads in both conferences are arming themselves to the teeth and getting some big players such as the case of Chicago Fire with Swiss international Xherdan Shaquiri, Toronto FC with world-class Italian Lorenzo Insigne, and Mexican international defender Carlos Salcedo, and Los Angeles Galaxy with Brazilian top-rated player Douglas Acosta just to mention a few.
The Portland Timbers are betting on their youth draftees and academy players to build upon their future. In the preseason, several young and talented players really demonstrated their skills and most of all hunger to make a stand with the big team.
However, with a certain number of players to be registered in the big team, the good news is that the Timbers’ participation in MLS formative league for sure will become the highlight for an upgrade in their talents.
For the Rose City team, one thing after another brings many setbacks and among one of them is the Andy Polo case. As my expectations for his game to really be a factor were marred by his recent scandal.
With a few players in the defensive midfield leading the pack with Diego Chara and now Eryck Williamson recovered from a season-ending injury, the competition for this position will be one to follow closely. As newcomer David Ayala along with Cristhian Paredes recovered his spark and delivered many memorable moments vital for the Timbers’ run to MLS Cup.
The competition will be a factor amongst George Fochive, Blake Bodily. That this latter one will have to step up his game if he wants to see some minutes during the campaign. One thing for sure Ayala will really become a headliner that can surely unseat either Chara or Williamson for a starting spot.
Many see Diego Chara and Eryck Williamson as the sure starters, but nothing is really set, and the ball will be between Paredes and Ayala that can become a challenge to these undisputable starters and defy them for a starting spot.
As I see the likes of Williamson again putting on another amazing season and if he stays healthy, I don’t doubt a few European suitors to get ahold of his services in the future. Overall, in the defensive part, the Portland Timbers are ready to challenge any team in both conferences and make it a grand one.
End of Part II
Portland Timbers
