Klinsmann Considers Formation For USA Opener

Jurgen Klinsmann is thinking of using the same formation he chose in the final friendly game against Nigeria for his USA side in their key Group G opener against Ghana on June 16 in Natal.

The German coach has expressed reluctance to discuss tactics in the media, but after beating the Super Eagles 2-0, he looks set to stick with a successful method.

According to ESPN.com reports, Klinsmann will opt for a 4-4-2 diamond starting XI, featuring Real Salt Lake’s midfielder Kyle Beckerman as anchor in front of the backline for the Yanks’ World Cup opener.

Picking Beckerman for that role would mean Jermaine Jones is destined for a more advanced position, as left interior midfielder, which would mean Alejandro Bedoya or Brad Davis playing to the right of Beckerman.

“It was a different position for me, but I like it,” Jones told reporters. “I don’t have to do so much backtracking when Kyle is the guy who stays in the back.”

Michael Bradley is expected to fill the No. 10 spot once again, playing just behind forwards Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey, as Klinsmann’s plans for his underdog side become more clear.