Four sleepers Union fans should watch out for in MLS Superdraft

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The MLS Superdraft is rapidly approaching and with it, a period of excitement for Philadelphia Union fans. The Union have a history of somehow making some mistakes around the draft period..whether it be the negligence of Andre Blake post draft or otherwise, with two top 6 picks and one in each of the remaining rounds, the draft comes at a perfect time..the question is who are going to be the guys who make an instant impact?

The early reports are pointing towards the Union drafting Defensively. Stanford’s Brandon Vincent, Josh Yaro and Keegan Rosenberry seem to be cropping up constantly in Union related speculation..but the MLS Combine is a beautiful thing. Draft stock changes by the day and whilst the overall consensus may not, there are certainly some players that Union fans should keep an eye on. With big Earn and Jim Curtin looking to revolutionize Philly with this “Moneyball” idea..the development of youth players is crucial..don’t be surprised if you see the Union throw a Curveball in the Superdraft and sign a player who nobody expected…except potentially us…

4)Ritchie Laryea- Midfielder (1st round)
Whilst not potentially a “sleeper” considering he’s a projected top 10 pick, Laryea is an outstanding talent from Akron university. After 11 goals, 7 assists and a total of 29 points he appeared to disappoint at the combine which may well lower his stock and encourage teams to look elsewhere. This could well open the door for the Union with the sixth pick who could use some depth following the departure of Maidana earlier this Off-season. The Union are going to need some depth in midfield and after starting in all 42 of his appearances, Laryea could be the perfect off the bench option to develop over the course of next season..don’t be surprised if the Union take him with their second first round pick should he be available.

3) Colin Bonner- Forward (2nd round)
A projected second rounder, Bonner comes into the Superdraft as the tallest striker in the class at 6″4. Whilst perhaps not the most prolific, Bonner scored goals as a substitute in both days at the combine and with reports of Nando rejoining Nantes, Bonner seems like the perfect replacement. Last season saw an influx of crosses into the central area for Aristeguieta to latch onto but with little success. This and the combination of injury saw Sapong rise as the leading striker in the end but if the Union were to re-adapt this mixed cross tactic then a 6″4 forward may be the perfect man to do it. A great talent who could perform off the bench for any MLS team..if he’s still knocking around the Union may well take a shot on him.

2) Max Lachowecki- Wing back (third round)

After 18 starts in his senior campaign and being on the field for every minute of 22 games in his junior year, Lachowecki was set to be one of the top in his position..however after a poor combine performance he could well slip down the board. If that is the case he could go from a mid-second round to a late third-rounder which would be perfect for the Union who could really use some depth behind Fabinho.

1) Timo Pitter- M/F (second/third round)
Pitter is projected go at the end of the first round but if he slips, the Union would be silly to pass up on someone with such great versatility. An accomplished passer of the ball, Pitter was named Big East Midfielder of the year en route to his fantastic year. Nine assists and a goal in all but three appearances saw Pitter turn heads on his way to a Generation Adidas Contact but like Lachowecki, seemed a little off in the combine which may see him fall down the board slightly. The Union may well take a jump if he’s somehow lying around in the third round or maybe even make a trade..neither Curtin or Big Earn has ruled the possibility out.