The forwards

Over the past few weeks we have looked at each group players. Now we turn our attention to the group that are counted on to score, the guys who get the leads and close the deal. Because as we all know, leads are for closers.

Jared Borgetti – He did not play as much as he would have liked for Bolton, but all indications are that he will honor his contract. He comes to Germany fresher than most do to his limited duty. Will he be rusty? I don’t think so. He may not have played much in England, but his conditioning is impressive. He is thicker and stronger than before. Even though he is lethal in the air, he scored the majority of his goals this year with his feet. His playing time at Bolton was predicated on his ability to help out on defense. He is also underrated as a set up man.What we are going to see in Germany is a new and Improved Borgetti: 20% more strength in a sturdier package. He has something to prove.

Guillermo Franco – Franco’s presence will help Borgetti immensely. From what I have seen from Guille, he is not the typical, selfish striker who looks to score at any cost. Franco dishes as well as he scores, and has good scoring ability with the head. Maybe not as much as Jared, but enough to make people think twice about double teaming #9. As I said yesterday, Franco holds the keys to the tournament. He played very well in the last few weeks with Villareal. Franco is a tireless player who will never give up.

Kikin Fonseca – Is there a more dedicated player on the team than Kikin? He will do whatever it takes for the betterment of the team. His role may be reduced to bench duty, but he is another player who will leave everything on the field. He has the biggest heart on the team. Nobody questions his commitment or desire. If he comes in, expect him to pick up the defensive slack for Arellano or Franco as they push up to make things happen.

Omar Bravo – The little guy gets a lot of criticism, but he does have above average skills. Granted, his size is a liability, but he has had to deal with that his entire career, and he seems to know how to deal with it. He just might be the 2nd best header of the ball on the team. He is certainly the quickest forward. He will be a good change of pace when he comes in.