Is Mix Diskerud A Good Fit As New No. 10 For USMNT?

By Adam Clifton @adamdclifton on October 17, 2014

Following the surprise omission of Landon Donovan at the 2014 World Cup, many were shocked to see someone from the United States Men’s National Team wearing the No. 10. The man behind the jersey was Mix Diskerud. Diskerud has played for the United States Men’s National Team since 2010. Diskerud was included in the 23-man roster to represent the United States at the World Cup. Although he did not see the field in Brazil, Diskerud announced his arrival to U.S. soccer fans by dawning the jersey of the biggest star in American soccer history.

Diskerud plays his club soccer for Rosenborg BK in Norway, which may play a role in his lack of popularity for American soccer fans. However, Diskerud has been a major player for the USMNT since his international career started in 2010. He has scored four goals for the United States and has played a key role in numerous appearances for his country. Recently, Jurgen Klinsmann has stated he expects more out of Diskerud, specifically in his defensive responsibilities.

With the current state of the national team, there is no question Mix Diskerud is going to be an integral part of the team. However, there are two major questions regarding Diskerud. Is he a good enough player to deserve the No. 10 jersey? And should the United States retire the No. 10 jersey that has become synonymous with Landon Donovan? It is completely unrealistic to expect Diskerud to follow in the footsteps of Donovan or attempt to have a similar impact on American soccer. However, Diskerud needs to have a bigger impact for the USMNT if he wants these questions to go away.