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The term “cult hero” has been used many times to describe Alan Gordon. It is a good way to describe the Los Angeles Galaxy forward who has a small legion of fans and has built a reputation for late-game heroics. Despite only one appearance with the USMNT, Gordon was named to the provisional roster for the upcoming 2015 Gold Cup. Gordon’s long career is hard to categorize and this latest news adds another element to his strange legacy.
Gordon has appeared in over 200 MLS matches between two stints with the Galaxy, his breakout years with the San Jose Earthquakes and a handful of matches with Toronto FC and Chivas USA. To many, he is known as the player who came off the field when David Beckham subbed on for his first appearance with the Galaxy.
Gordon scored 13 goals for San Jose in 2012, but has failed to score more than five goals in any other season. He does have four goals this season since he is getting more playing time thanks to teammates’ injuries and international duty.
All of his goals this season have either tied the match, won the match or came in stoppage time. His ability to score meaningful goals with the Earthquakes helped solidify “Goonies never say die” as the rallying cry of the team. He has produced despite a simple game in which he utilizes his size and becomes one of the main targets on set pieces. Gordon has worked hard and shown value to various coaches despite the grinder mentality.
Gordon may be seen as a clutch player, but he was once mixed up in a tough life of drugs and crime having left home at the age of 15. He did not get into heavy drugs and the crime was often shoplifting that sometimes included guns. When he straightened up and made it to MLS, his career was almost derailed multiple times by injury. Two years ago he used an anti-gay slur during a match and was rightfully suspended and fined.
Apologies, gestures like buying kegs for supporters’ groups and his self-deprecating nature has won Gordon many fans. Now the 33-year-old forward is on the provisional Gold Cup roster. Although it seems unlikely that Gordon will make the final roster, stranger things have happened under the watch of Jurgen Klinsmann. Regardless, the anomalous legacy of Alan Gordon has grown with just his name on the provisional list.
Douglas Smith is a writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DFresh39, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.
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