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Say what you want about Frankie Hejduk, but the veteran defender hasn't slowed down a bit.
Not only has Hejduk maintained a good level of play at the age of 34, he has actually stepped up his play for both club and country. With Steve Cherundolo sidelined by injury, Hejduk has made the most of the chance to take over as the No. 1 right back for the U.S. national team.
Here is my piece on Hejduk for ESPN.com, which discusses, among other things, Hejduk's impressive recovery from the ACL tear that kept him out of the 2006 World Cup.
Critics will focus on Hejduk's flaws, from his poor touch to inconsistent and, at times, awful crossing, but his weaknesses do not overshadow his strengths and the fact that he has actually improved over the past year, and more importantly, he is currently the best option at Bob Bradley's disposal.
While many of the other top right back prospects are either dealing with injuries, or just aren't ready for a starting role, Hejduk has stepped up and delivered some of his best national team performances to date in recent months. Few American fans will forget Hejduk's one-goal, one-assist performance in helping the United States come back from two goals down to tie El Salvador.
What do you think of Hejduk's renaissance? Do you like the idea of him potentially being the starting right back in 2010 for the USA? Still don't like the idea?
Share your thoughts below.