Today Bob Bradley released his roster for the upcoming 2011 Gold Cup that kicks off June 7th. It was apparent from the beginning the Bob Bradley was bringing out the big guns as marquee names like Landon Donovan, Tim Howard, Michael Bradley and Clint Dempsey were all called up (amongst others). This is an important tournament for the Nats.
There was also a few surprises, most notably in Freddy Adu, the once American prodigy turned European failure (no offense). Despite playing in the Turkish second division (and struggling even there) Bob Bradley decided to give him a spot, something which could obviously be taken as a slight to many more qualified MLS players.
Anyway, we'll be discussing the Gold Cup more as it gets closer. For now, let's enjoy the day's links:
Timbers specific news
Post-Match Thoughts: Timbers vs. Columbus | Timbers Insider
Fantastic analysis from Saturday's match.
Timbers Host Dutch Legends Ajax Amsterdam Wednesday
Don't know who Ajax is? DroppingTimber.com has a nice introductory piece on the club.
Game 10: Timbers 1 – Columbus 0 - The Offside
Portland Timbers remain unbeaten and untied at Jeld-Wen Field after Eric Brunner's headed goal pro
Expectations for Timbers fans this year: A fan's take
The inaugural MLS season for the Portland Timbers has a mix of fans.
Timbers, Red Cross Team Up For Tornado Victims
The Portland Timbers are teaming up with the American Red Cross to help raise money for the victims of a deadly tornado in Joplin, Mo.
Family of Portland's Jewsbury safe after Missouri tornados
Jack Jewsbury's home town got hit by a tornado. Luckily his family is safe.
Adelaide United’s Flores again linked with Portland Timbers
More rumors about Marcos Flores.
League news (after the jump)
MLS' most valuable players so far this season
Both Kenny Cooper and Jack Jewsbury make the list!
MLS's 10 most underpaid and most overpaid players
No Portland players make either list.
Major League Soccer Power Rankings - Week 9 - RSL Soapbox
Portland moves up two spots to #6. Seattle places in 8th.
HE’S BACK Freddy Adu gets surprise call from U.S.
This is especially surprising because Adu is playing in the Turkish second division. This is almost a slight against many qualified MLS players.
Big names and surprises define Bob Bradley's squad
The big names are there, but there are also a number of surprises in (and out) of Bob Bradleys U.S. mens Gold Cup squad.
MLS Power Rankings: Week 9 | MLSsoccer.com
Timbers move up to #9. Seattle moves up to #5 despite winning in stoppage time.
GOLD CUP: Locals on the U.S. roster
The L.A. area has been well-represented on U.S. national team rosters throughout the modern era.