USA World Cup Looking Grim Already

Dempsey had played very well in the first half of Sunday’s match against Blackburn and nearly gave the Cottagers a lead. But, in the 62nd minute, the Texas native limped off the pitch. Blackburn went on to defeat Fulham 2-0 but, more importantly, Dempsey could have a serious knee injury to contend with just five months before the World Cup.

Fulham Manager Roy Hodgson said the injury did not look good, mentioning that the winger could have cruciate ligament damage in the knee. An injury to the knee ligaments could sideline Dempsey for months but there won’t be a definitive answer until Monday. USA fans have to be holding their breath for the next 24 hours because, judging by early reports, the prognosis does not look positive.

What the hell did we do to be so snake bit? First Charlie Davies damn near dies, then Onyewu's knee gets shredded, and now Dempsy's knee explodes.

The trouble with the US side is we have no depth to speak of at any position other than goalkeeper. If past experience is any guide we can expect to see under-talented but "hard working" players get most of the minutes to replace the likes of Davies and Dempsy. I'm not sure there is a replacement for Onyewu worthy of the name, but at least there is a chance he could return by the summer. However, what kind of form could he possibly have?

Pessimism is the order of the day I'm afraid.

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