Player Profile: #15 Micheal Azira

Coming from the Charleston Battery and playing as a defensive midfielder it would be easy to say that Micheal Azira is an Osvaldo Alonso clone. It would also be correct, but not because of his biography. Azira plays the game like a less skilled Ozzie.

Azira was oft-used, but rarely starting. His 1021 minutes came from nine starts in 22 appearances. The Ugandan National Team player (who misses those games because the FIFA date issue) is the perfect supplement to an MLS roster. Thirty total times he was in the 18 for Seattle Sounders FC.

Offense:

Azira showed great long passing skills, with an ability to read open spaces well beyond 20 yards. His short passing can maintain possession while keeping pace. He is not a good shooter. Could improve at making late runs, but maybe his shot is not good enough to threaten when he does. A safety valve on attacking set-pieces.

Defense:

Harsh tackler, but not a great ball winner. Instead takes possession back by reading game better than the opposition. Can fill in defensively as an outside back (lacks passing to play there regularly). Even if he gets beat by the dribble will do enough to at least slow down the opponent.

Physique:

For such a small player he willingly gives up the body when tackling. Not fast, just enough quickness within his preferred role. Certainly gets by with intelligence much more than athleticism.

Best Case 2015:

Being the best backup for the best defensive mid in the game has its drawbacks - Azira doesn't play as much as his talent should have him play. Would be a great trade chip. Otherwise expect him to get many minutes in Champions League and Open Cup.