As the Seattle Sounders attack continues to sputter along, one of the more frequently posited explanations involves Clint Dempsey — specifically, the assertion that his presence in the lineup is actually a detriment to the team. The theory centers around the belief that the Sounders’ turnaround last season coincided with Dempsey’s forced absence, and that the team’s struggles have returned with him; that Deuce may be a talented player, but his presence requires tactical changes that make his presence a net negative.
It’s a compelling theory, and one that can likely be supported by subjective observations.