Klinsmann rolls out roster for Italy: Usual suspects and a couple of twists

I could go through with a thorough rundown of the roster position by position, but there probably isn't much need for that considering that the squad we will see trotted out in Genoa next Wednesday will look much like what we've seen for a few years now. That's not to say that there won't be a couple of guys I'll be particularly interested to see on this stage, however.

• Fabian Johnson: I've been intrigued by him ever since he was at 1860 Munich before moving to Hoffenheim. No, this won't be his first US cap, as he got his first two against France and Slovenia, but the sample size of performances in a US shirt is still far too small to tell us if he will ultimately be a good fit, though I see no reason why he can't be. His versatility in being able to play on either side of midfield or at either fullback spot is a selection luxury, especially when we remind ourselves that a stalwart like Steve Cherundolo isn't getting any younger. However,, Johnson's prowess in more advanced positions could be best used in allowing him to play in Donovan's spot wide right, thus pushing Donovan into an attacking midfield spot behind the forwards if Klinsmann decides to stick with the 4-4-2 we saw against Slovenia. US fans have to love these various permutations his inclusion would offer.
• Geoff Cameron: Like Johnson, Cameron brings the trait of versatility into the fold, but once again like Johnson, his time in a US shirt has been limited to this point. With Onyewu injured at the moment, it's not unimaginable to think that he could get thrown right into the fire at the back against the Azurri from the start in a few days. Good luck finding a better litmus test for his abilities at the international level than that.

Selection speculations aside, I hope that we see more of the daring play we saw against Slovenia as opposed to the very defensive approach on offer against France during the fall. With his best attacking players, Dempsey and Donovan, displaying some great form in recent days in England, Klinsmann might have every reason to throw some numbers forward and try take the game by the scruff of the neck early.