Lawrence Olum back in the lineup for the Portland Timbers (Photo by Diego G Diaz/ProstAmerika)
For Lawrence Olum, business as usual is a good thing. After getting the call as of late from his manager, Olum is delivering. With seven consecutive starts, he has adapted to his new role in the defensive midfield. As you know, the man can play both midfield and defense.
Therefore, that is why Olum has immediately adaptation to the new style and scheme instituted by manager Gio Savarese. So far this new scheme is working wonders for him and giving him the time to ern minutes and starts. He hasn’t disappointed and has been lauded for his efforts. He is getting along wonderfully and displaying an amazing teamwork with Diego Chara, Cristhian Paredes or Andres Flores.
In addition, the internal competition Gio has instituted across the squad has forced many players tp step up their game in order to be consider by their new man at the helm.
On the defense Lawrence has shown an overzealous approach lately to opposing teams counter attacks and being one of those breaking them solidly. He also worked as a contributor in the Portland attack and in the middle in making some important plays for his team.
By putting his skills to work wisely and his leadership being a contributing factor for Portland undefeated streak in the campaign. Still this is a team effort and Lawrence Olum has become a vital piece in the new and upgraded defensive game of these Portland Timbers.
Forget about last campaign, after making a few starts as center back and later confined to the bench for the rest of the campaign. 2018 is a different year as the man has shown in training his desires of being an all-around starter with his efforts paying off on game day with a start.
There is no stopping Olum in his desires of being a starter. As he is aware of the competition particularly with David Guzman back from World Cup action. He seems to be very aware of the competition around him, so he understands he needs to step up his efforts and to continue forward with a positive mentality.
That is why lately he is getting the call to duty and not letting his Boss down. Still there is a lot of league action ahead and with the August around the corner. I do not doubt Olum will continue as a starter in the rest of the campaign if he continues delivering memorable afternoons for his Portland Timbers.
Timbers’ central midfielder Lawrence Olum found himself surrounded by Sounders players.
MLS Western
Portland
