Klinsmann to QPR's Redknapp: Oguchi Onyewu "almost certainly" in USMNT's World Cup squad

Oguchi Onyewu - October 11, 2011

When US international Oguchi Onyewu signed with English Championship side Queens Park Rangers this week, one tidbit of news that was seemingly overlooked was what USMNT manager Jurgen Klinsmann reportedly told QPR manager Harry Redknapp: The Gooch was "almost certainly" going to be with the US squad in Brazil.


Speaking to the UK press about the Onyewu signing, Redknapp related a recent conversation he had with Klinsmann about his new centerback.


"Jurgen Klinsmann rung me about him, to recommend him," Redknapp said. "He said he's going to be probably, almost certainly in his squad for the World Cup. And really he's a big fan of his. He likes him very much. [Onyewu] needs to go and play somewhere because [Klinsmann] wants him for the World Cup."

That's probably surprising news to most USMNT fans and observers, given that Onyewu has made only two appearances for the US in 2013 -- one in a friendly against Guatemala and the other in group play of the CONCACAF Gold Cup


Onyewu has also struggled to get consistent minutes with his recent clubs. He has made only 27 league appearances since leaving Standard Liege in 2009.