VIEWS OF THE BEAUTIFUL GAME FOR THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Kelyn Rowe on trial with FC Cologne

United States U-20 Midfielder Kelyn Rowe just recently made the trek to Germany, where he's trying to make his mark on trial with Bundesliga side FC Cologne. My fellow college peer at UCLA, who I've seen play on multiple occasions was very impressive this season. He totaled a team high 10 assists to go along with 7 goals in his freshman campaign. He was a 3rd team All-America this season and was an All Pac-10 selection. The diminutive Rowe (at about 5'8) was one of the few bright spots on this year's U-20 side. His off the ball movement is quite good and he can get into space frequently. He's also very adept at running at people while being able to spray the ball around. Quintessentially, he fits well behind the target striker similarly to Landon Donovan. I won't compare him to Landon because he's not as fast, but he plays very similarly and has a bright future as a #10 type of player. If he does indeed return to UCLA, he'll be a lock to be a top 3, possibly the top overall pick in the 2012 MLS draft. It's been reported by numerous news outlets that he also trialed at Stade Rennes in France. Any news or developments on his trial in Germany will be reported by OTP.


JOGA BONITO