Through eight matches this season, Real Salt Lake has used the majority of its roster, utilizing 24 out of 27 players under contract already. Twenty of those players have started matches and while that has caused some inconsistency as players have cycled through the lineup due to injuries, suspensions and international duty, it has also created opportunities for players to shine.
Just as Justen Glad did last year when given the opportunity to start, some young players have taken advantage and run with their chances, heightening the battles for different starting positions all around the field. While General Manager Craig Waibel transitions the team to set up opportunities for the next generation of young talent to shine, those young players are brought to the forefront.