2014 Philadelphia Union Player Review: Amobi Okugo

2014 Season Summary

Amobi Okugo continued to grow as a player. The last of the Philadelphia Union's inaugural class of 2010 once Jack McInerney was sent to the Montreal Impact, Okugo spent most of the season at center back, although did get some time as a central defensive midfielder. His whoscored.com rating of 6.85 was best for eighth on the team among players who made ten or more appearances.

What Did They Do Right?

Okugo was one of the best options the club had at center back all season, and played it admirably despite a revolving door of pairings at the position. His average of 36.9 passes per game was good for fourth on the club, and when paired with his 81.5% completion rate made him a very potent weapon on the counterattack, which is the style of play the Union adopted under manager Jim Curtin's.

What Did They Do Wrong?

Not Amobi's fault, but the Union failing to play him during the US Open Cup Final against the Seattle Sounders was a big blemish on his season. That decision was, to borrow a phrase from a certain ex-Union manager, baffling.

Most Memorable Moment

Everyone remembers Rais M'Bolhi's gaffe against the Chicago Fire that effectively sunk the Union's season, but what most don't remember is that Amobi was the one who put the Union into a position to win in the first place. This goal was total Okugo - a result of hustle and having the smarts to be in the right place at the right time.

Future Expectations

Amobi will probably revert to his natural central defensive midfielder position - for Orlando City SC. If Amobi can act as the link between Orlando's defense and potent offensive attack, look for him to continue his journey in Europe.