USA going to Copa America '07

Here's the story from the AP.  And the press release from the USSF.

This decision goes a long way toward reversing Bob Contiguglia's biggest mistake during his years running the USSF.

Comments

[Kelly]

It just struck me, Gulati stated he was going to get the opinion of his "candidates" about participating in the Copa America, a decision which would appear to have been a no-brainer if ever there was. This announcement seperated by a mere weekend from the first official word that:

1) Klinsi wants to coach again.
2) Klinsi is interested in the USMNT
3) Klinsi is talking to the USSF.

Ya' think Klinsi was Gulati's only source?

[Tim]

Sounds like they came to a financial agreement with Klinsi's contract as well. Now can Klinsi field two teams that win the CONCACAF Gold Cup and do well in the Copa America???

[Kelly]

Not entirely impossible. One way being bandied about is for a hard-core team for the Copa - the best the USSF can assemble - and an "introductory" type squad for the Gold Cup - more rookies, bubbles and those with only a few caps seasoned with a few of the younger vets. Might not win the G.C. with a squad like that, but most of the confed hardly brings the A-team either. It would also be a good chance to see how some of the untested handle a tournament. Besides it might be a good way to get the Ghana/US cap question settled for Adu, at least one of these tourneys must qualify as a true international matches.

[Tim]

It will definitely strengthen and deepen the US squad. I agree, it should be a Under-23 squad that is sent to the Olympics that should also compete in the Gold Cup. There is also discussion that for the next Olympics, the under 23 coach will come from the new US coach staff. Sigi anyone??????