There had been rumblings throughout the offseason that Sean Franklin, D.C. United’s right back for the past three seasons, would play center back for the Black-and-Red in 2017. There was mention of it when United selected Chris Odoi-Atsem in the first round of the MLS SuperDraft, a right back out of the University of Maryland. And finally, when United lined up for their first preseason practice on Tuesday at the RFK Auxiliary Field, Franklin took his spot among the center backs, in a drill working with the back line.
It might have been an uncommon sight, but one that United’s faithful may grow accustomed to over the course of two preseason trips to Florida, and six preseason friendly games.