Welcome to another edition of The Postcard, where I answer your questions on Nashville SC, MLS and whatever else you want to talk about.
Will Rios get more shots up front?
— Jay Oz (@Nashvillejayoz) August 21, 2020
I really think so. It sounded like the plan was for him to be THE guy until they signed a DP or TAM-level striker, and it’s hard to see them abandoning that after one fairly anonymous performance against Dallas. In fairness to Ríos, he was very isolated in his loan start, and he did manage to hold the ball up well on occasion, and came close with a header. It wasn’t a breakout performance, but he didn’t look terrible. I’m hopeful that his benching on Sunday was simply down to squad rotation on a short turnaround. I definitely expect to see more of him.
Jimmy Medranda. Still.
— 'stacheVille (@615eternal) August 21, 2020
You and me both. I still hold that Medranda is one of the most electric players on the roster. Unfortunately, this has been the story of his career; recurring minor injuries that pile up and keep him sidelined for long stretches. He’s missed three of Nashville’s four matches with injury, and it looks like this latest hip injury will keep him out of a third consecutive game. It’s really unfortunate for a player who I think could really make a difference for Nashville’s attack.
Is the team still going after that Argentinian striker who plays for PSV?
— Jeremy Craig (@JeremyCraig18) August 21, 2020
It sounds like new PSV manager Roger Schmidt sees Maxi Romero as part of his plans. Romero has been involved in all of PSV’s friendlies so far, and it’s worth noting that Eindhoven paid €10.5 million for Romero just over two years ago, so they’ll want to recoup some of their investment if they decide to sell.
There are reliable sources reporting Nashville’s interest in Déiber Caicedo, and Nashville would still be interested in Aké Loba if Monterrey decided to sell. I think at this point it’s pretty evident that Nashville want to sign a DP striker, but “when” is the big question. If they find the right player, they won’t hesitate to move quickly. It seems like they’re content to wait until the January window if that would result in a better deal. Bottom line, they won’t rush to sign a player they’re not sure about.
Will Dave Romney ($225k) or Dax McCarty ($100k) be our best value transfer? Interested to hear thoughts on 2020 season vs career potential in Nashville.
— Chris Hoal (@ChrisHoal) August 21, 2020
It has to be McCarty. Romney has been really, really good, but McCarty was a steal at $100k and has been one of the best players at his position across the league. The leadership he brings to the team and his intangibles off the field alone would probably be worth the money, but on the field he’s been a huge part of their attack.
Is Anibaba, Johnston, or Beckeles a more likely, long term answer to RB? Considering this season as a whole.
— Chris Hoal (@ChrisHoal) August 21, 2020
Long-term, I think it’s Johnston. He hasn’t looked at all out of place in MLS thus far; in fact, he’s stood out. I think Jalil Anibaba makes a lot of sense for the short term, though. He’s an MLS veteran, clearly a leader on the team, and don’t forget he was starting at left-back for New England last season when they qualified for the playoffs. I was honestly a bit surprised Miller started ahead of him to start the year, and I think he makes a lot of sense there to let Johnston develop, potentially in a more advanced role.
Do you expect Accam to continue to start on the bench and sub in after 70 minutes? Is this a good long term strategy and will he be content to consistently not start?
— Chris Hoal (@ChrisHoal) August 21, 2020
I expect it to change from game to game. He was good in their first two matches, but there’s a lot to be said for having a guy with his pace and directness come off the bench and run at tired defenders for the last 20-30 minutes. I do think Gary Smith has a bit more flexibility now with the signing of Alex Muyl and the development of Alistair Johnston. He doesn’t have to start Accam every match now, but I think there are definitely matches where starting him makes sense.
Thanks to everyone who sent in questions! This was a lot of fun. Let’s keep doing it. Keep sending your questions in the comments, on Twitter using the hashtag #ThePostcardBroadway, or via email at benwrightsoccer@gmail.com. And be on the lookout for more Nashville SC news coming out soon.
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