Dear Benny,

Please come home. Ever since watching the goal you scored against Mexico, you have given me hope. I was excited to see such a quality finish from a player wearing our countries colors. Not to mention that it also won us the Gold Cup. Such bright times for a young man like yourself, a talented midfielder from sunny California. UCLA is a good team. A good program.

We can all admit that Hamburger SV was a waste of time. A flash in the pan. 9 apperances over two seasons? Not the best. But you were still in the process of developing. And I can’t imagine what it’s like trying to cope in a new country and play your top game.

After that Mexico game, people thought you had saved America. Myself included. Others labeled your shot close to perfection. Things were good. I can’t remember ever being more excited for a goal scored in an international game for the U.S.

Then it all came crashing down. Derby happened. At first I say to myself: “oh, another American in the Prem. Sweet.” As the season went by, I checked the match reports. You weren’t there. I did watch the Arsenal game, you know, the one where Fabregas made a meal out of you. That’s ok. He’s pretty good, that one. But toiling around for a team that has managed to win just one game isn’t going to cut it. That isn’t going to help our country in 2010.

My final words: come to the MLS. Please. For pete’s sake. If you think the league isn’t good enough, then at least come to build your confidence. Get back into the groove of things. Because you aren’t a flash in the pan. A one goal wonder. Make these rumors true. And quit asking for so much money.

All the best,

A fan

PS – Once more, just for old times sake:

Category: MLS