Toronto FC announced Friday that defender Marvell Wynne has been selected to the U.S. National team roster for the upcoming Copa America tournament taking place from June 26 to July 15th in Venezuela.
"I'm so happy for Marvell", said Head Coach Mo Johnston, "the kid's worked very, very hard since coming up Generation Adidas, becoming the number one draft pick, going to New York, and then the transition to Toronto. He's been a treat to work with, and I knew that all along, there's a huge upside to him. I'm excited for him and his family."
The Copa America serves as one of the main international tournaments of CONMEBOL and has invited both the United States and Mexico to take part in this year's edition. The Americans last appeared in 1993 (12th) and again in 1995 (4th).
U.S. Head Coach Bob Bradley selected Wynne to his 22 man roster on Friday and with the tournament getting underway on Tuesday - Wynne will depart for Venezuela right from Boston on Sunday. He will remain with the U.S. team as long as they progress in the tournament.
"It's very, very exciting," said Wynne, "I actually heard I was in the pre-lim's about a week ago. I was watching the Gold Cup and was wondering...I want to be there some day, and now I'm getting the chance to possibly get a cap with the National team and I'm very excited."
Wynne will miss at least 2 of Toronto FC's games, in Kansas City on July 1st, and Real Salt Lake on July 4th. Toronto plays July 7th in Chicago.
"I'm pretty confident that the team will still do well even though I'm not here," said Wynne, "it doesn't take one guy it takes a whole team, but I will be looking forward to coming back when my time's up at the tournament."
The Copa America winner will represent CONMEBOL at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. However, if either the United States or Mexico takes the title, the best finishing South American team will take their place.
The final will be played July 15th in Maracaibo. The last country to raise the Copa America trophy was Argentina, who defeated Brazil on penalties in 2004. Adraiano was the top scorer in that tournament with 7 goals.
For a look at the full U.S. National Team Copa America Roster, please visit USSoccer.com
