The World Cup Is Here: Will Gooch And Jozy Be Ready For USA?

The World Cup is set to kick off in only two days. The USA National Team will kick off one day after, this Saturday vs. England. However, there's a question mark over star defender Oguchi Onyewu and our goal scorer Jozy Altidore. Both of them just coming off injuries and American fans are wondering if they'll be ready to rock vs. England?

Jozy Altidore turned an ankle less than 2 weeks before the opening day of the World Cup. This was a complete scare. Onyewu ruptured his patellar tendon, which most thought would end his chances of returning in time for the World Cup.

Onyewu, also known as Gooch is ready to face England. He's recent statements sound promising as he's assured American fans that he's fit enough to start and go for 90 minutes.

Gooch has had a few games to get back out there and shake off the rust. His rust sure showed in a few of the friendly matches, but can't blame him for that. That's only normal, but hopefully he's had enough time to shake off the rest. During training sessions he's been involved in all activities and isn't limited at all.

Just one week after Jozy Altidore sprained his ankle, he's back in training. His ankle was a bit sore after practice, but he says he's feeling great. American fans are really hoping that he is indeed feeling great, but time will tell.

The defensive unit for the USA team has helped bring great success over the past few years. A big part of this was due to Gooch anchoring the unit. It's been eight months since he's played a 90 minute match, so we will shortly see if he's back to form. If he's not at full form, England will have no problem exploiting the American defense.

Gooch has marked up some of the best in the World, but Wayne Rooney and Peter Crouch are a dangerous duo. If he's able to hold his own against these guys, at least that's a positive sign of what's to come with the rest of the group stage.

If the American team comes out like they did in the Confederations Cup last summer, then they will make some noise. Anything less than a run to the quarterfinals (like in 2002), will be considered a let down for this team. One things for sure, without Jozy and Gooch feeling good it won't be the same team!

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