Unpredictability for the Sounders FC is at the tip of Kelvin Leerdam’s foot.
Or head.
The right back is the team’s second-leading goal scorer this season with five. That’s an unexpected spot for a defender who, when paired with forward-turned-winger Jordan Morris, gives the Sounders one of the more formidable right sides in MLS.
Stopping the Sounders’ offense isn’t simply defending their front four. Leerdam and left back Brad Smith, who’s second on the team with five assists, have to be considered.
“It’s modern soccer,” said Sounders assistant coach Djimi Traore, who works with the defenders.