Some interesting stories emerged when Canada unveiled its new soccer kit.
There was no shortage of interesting little tidbits that emerged at the unveiling of Canada's new soccer kit this week.
The CSA is working on another friendly in March. They're not ready to announce this one yet as it's likely to be on neutral ground somewhere, so it involves a third country.
What will Stephen Hart's squad look like for these matches? Hard to say. With MLS teams in the heart of training camp, this figures to be a European-based team. There are some injuries however. Most notably, Patrice Bernier broke his leg while playing for his Danish club Nordsjaelland. There are also a couple of more minor injuries but those players could be available when Canada faces Greece on Feb. 9.
A bigger concern is likely league schedules. This time of year matches get moved around due to domestic cup and European competitions. Nailing down the final roster won't be easy.
The same thing applies specifically to emerging star David Hoilett of Blackburn Rovers. Manager Steve Kean obviously likes him as the Brampton, Ont. native has become an integral part of Rovers attack. It resulted in his first goal for the club last weekend. Hoilett is eligible to play for Jamaica as well. Hart has broached the subject with him on a number of occasions, but he has yet to tip his hand. Since international friendlies no longer cap tie a player, the first opportunity to lock up any player in Hoilett's situation comes with the Gold Cup in June.
Wouldn't it be great if Hoilett had the attitude of aspiring goalkeeper Milan Borjan who plays for FK Rad in Serbia. Typical of many soccer players from that region, his family fled the chaos there and eventually landed in Canada, settling in Hamilton. You may be familiar with his story as it's starting to make the rounds. Borjan has made it clear that he owes everything to Canada and has made his decision. Hart would love to have him in Greece. At 6'4", he's an imposing figure and according to Hart, has a great command of his area and makes good decisions. Let's hope he's making the right one when it comes to declaring his loyalty.
With or without him, the Canadian team will trickle into Greece starting Feb. 5. They'll likely manage only one full training session before the game which we will have for you on Sportsnet live at 10am EST.
On an unrelated note, CSA general secretary Peter Montopoli is hopeful that the NASL will still get sanctioning by the USSF when they go back to the table early next month. The CSA is determined to have both Montreal and Edmonton take part in the Nutrilite Canadian Championship so this needs to get cleared up. What will happen though, is anyone's guess. Big trouble on the horizon there.
