Make no mistake about it, 2016 is a big year for Philadelphia Union captain Maurice Edu. Since joining the club prior the 2014 season, the 29-year-old has rotated between center back and his natural defensive midfielder role, often to fill a pressing need for head coach Jim Curtin.
This year, coming off a nagging groin injury that finally resulted in surgery, Edu’s role remained a bit of a question mark as Curtin and sporting director Earnie Stewart played coy for much the preseason. On one hand, Edu’s sheer ability led him to being a valuable asset on the back line, trying to salvage a group leaking too many goals. But that void in the midfield was felt often throughout the year, as the Union battled for possession.
But, for the third year in a row, Curtin is settled on his leader – at least for now.
“He’s been a soldier for the club in terms of doing whatever the team needs,” Curtin said at the club’s media day. “As of right now, we see him starting as the No. 6.”
That should create a level of excitement for Union fans, with the possibility of having Edu anchor a midfield along with stalwarts Vincent Nogueira, Tranquillo Barnetta and Roland Alberg. The noticeable void in back was profoundly addressed by Stewart during the club’s offseason, drafting Josh Yaro – the clear-cut top defender prospect in the country – with the No. 2 overall pick in the SuperDraft. Stewart also added Anderson Conceicao, a left-footed centerback with plenty of athleticism.
Now, for Edu, it’s a battle be healthy and fit. Something perhaps easier said than done for the veteran about to hit 30 years old on April 18. It’s a process he’s working on diligently with the Union medical staff, but stressed the importance of patience.
“Taking it day-by-day,” Edu said. “Everybody’s body heals differently and reacts differently. I’m trying to be smart and listen to mine. The biggest thing for me is to make sure that when I do come back, I’m feeling 100 percent.”
Certainly, the Union will need Edu at 100 percent if they aim to break the club’s four-year postseason drought. His importance typically relies with his versatility. Each of the last two seasons, Edu started at midfield before switching over to the back four.
That versatility is perhaps best explained in 2014, where Edu was the only player in MLS with at least 80 clearances and 70 successful tackles. In 2015, he was on pace for a similar number, where he would have joined Alvas Powell and Marvell Wynne. Both years, though, Edu’s passing accuracy was far better than that of other players with similar numbers, typically versatile defenders.
His versatility hasn’t gone unnoticed. While he hasn’t been called up since April 2, 2014, Edu’s been on U.S. National Team coach Jurgen Klinsmann’s radar.
“He’s invited me to a few camps, but timing-wise wasn’t the best because of my injury,” Edu said. “If I was fit, I would have been a part of that. But for me, the biggest thing is getting fit, first and foremost. From there, I just want to start the season off properly. Not just for me personally, but for this team. If I’m playing well, those opportunities will come.”
Thus, it's clear that in 2016, Edu will be looking for a quick start for the club, with the possibility of a national call-up looming before Copa America. Where he ultimately ends up remains to be seen, but it's a safe bet in the midfield. Regardless, for Union fans, and coach Curtin, they can count on his ability to adapt.
“At the end of last season when I had a talk with Jim, we kind of talked about positions,” Edu said. “I said that I was open to playing either. I just want to win games. Wherever they feel like I’m going to be an asset on the pitch, I’m willing to play. Going back in the midfield is great, obviously, it’s where I’ve played my entire career. But again, if my name is called to play in the back, it’s something I’m willing to do.”
This is the first installment of the 2016 Philadelphia Union season preview. All month at PhiladelphiaUnion.com, we'll be breaking down what lies ahead with the season less than one month away. This week, we're looking at the Union's midfield with a complete positional breakdown on Friday. Let's start with the captain. What's on your mind for Maurice Edu's 2016 season?
