With the 2009 season in the rearview mirror, here are the answers to some of the biggest questions surrounding the Kansas City Wizards as the club prepares for 2010.
WHAT DO THE WIZARDS NEED TO DO TO MAKE THE MLS CUP PLAYOFFS IN 2010?
Kansas City needs to develop an identity. New players, a coaching change, and a horrible schedule choked off any consistency in 2009. Under Vermes, one would expect that identity in 2010 to be a fit, relentless, purposeful attack that features fearless defense. Specifically, the Wizards need to find a solid attacking midfielder. Too many guys' games were of the holding variety, which often led to some confusion as to who would take the big shot or force a defense to react. If all that happens, pencil Kansas City in the MLS Cup Playoffs.
WHAT WAS THE TEAM'S BEST MOMENT IN '09?
In a season that didn't have many, veteran Claudio Lopez's mid-field bomb of a goal against Los Angeles on national television provided a jaw-dropping highlight.
WHO SHOWED THE BIGGEST IMPROVEMENT OVER THE COURSE OF THE SEASON?
Graham Zusi. The rookie started the first two games of the year before going down with injury. Getting back in the lineup under Onalfo proved impossible, but the young midfielder responded to Vermes' system, and the new manager has high hopes for Zusi as long as he continues to develop his game.
WHAT RESERVES ARE MOST READY TO CRACK THE STARTING LINEUP?
Based on his improvement, and knowing he will be on the team next year (which can't be said with the same confidence for several other K.C. midfielders), Zusi gets the nod here as well.
WHAT AREA OF THE TEAM NEEDS THE MOST IMPROVEMENT?
Scoring attitude. The Wizards found a little bit of that "finish" mentality by adding Zoltan and Kei Kamara late in the year, and Zusi proved to be a little bit of a magician in traffic, but they need to find another piece or three (the number depends on whether Zoltan and Kamara return). Flat out, the Wizards were too hesitant at times when the team had the ball. That has to change. Kansas City has its defensive leader in Conrad. An offensive go-to guy has to emerge or be brought in.
-- Curtis Kitchen
