Player Profile: Leo Gonzalez

When Leo Gonzalez got here he had speed, deft short passing that would spring Zakuani and was an alright defender. That's changed as he's aged and for the past two seasons due to injury and tactics he split time with the other left back while dabbling at some left mid and even centerback..

Marc Burch played more all competitions competitive minutes than Gonzalez and did so fairly well. The two leg injuries may have hampered Leo's quest for playing time, but his role flexibility and changing to a more defensive minded option should help him in 2013.

Skills on offense: Still a good passer for a defender (best of Seattle's defense) he has started to lose some of the spark that he showed in his first full season. Not the best crosser, his work is better done in classic small triangles. Occasionally can unleash a decent long range shot, but not going to put up offensive numbers.

Skills on defense: One of the best Sounders at one-on-one man-on defense he can be beat by speed. His tactical awareness is strong with speedy right mids rarely getting released past Gonzalez. Not a great set-play defender for his size. Leo is willing to get physical in the run of play, sometimes bordering on the rash.

Best Case in 2013: Health. As Leo's aged his propensity to get injured is increasing. This is also fairly normal. When healthy he should get the majority of starts and his defensive strength will be needed as Zakuani and Martinez get more time on the left wing.