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Seattle's less known Stanford attendee, Aaron Kovar was either the second or third ever Homegrown Player. He is now the longest tenured HGP as both Yedlin and Okoli are no longer in Seattle. This was Aaron's second season with the Seattle Sounders. At 22 it is the year when he should break out, if he builds on his performances in the CCL and the match against Tijuana.
Rank: 23 | Age: 22 | Starts: 8 | Appearances: 13 for 554 minutes | Bench: 10 | Goals: 0 | Assists: 0
all comps, 1st team
Offense:
If one were to define Kovar by a single skill it would be his set-piece service. The left-footer can deliver threatening balls on corners or free kicks on the attacking half. His mis-hits can be lofted rather the mis-targeted. His feet are nimble, able to dribble through traffic. Good short passer, who is generous. Needs to find the pass that breaks through the defense rather than just keeps the ball moving. Is mostly a traditional wide midfielder in a 4-4-2, but could be a winger or wingback on the same side.
Defense:
Aaron's nimble feet are visible defensively. Decent to good on ball defense, despite his size limitations. Positioning is solid, if unspectacular as a left back. Is a fast learner so this should be corrected if he gets extensive time along the line. Is a good outlet man for defensive set-pieces as his speed and ball skills should start attacks.
Physique:
Slight frame that is quite quick and nimble. Good first step and sprint speeds. Lacks height and leaping ability.
Best Case 2016:
With Ivanschitz clearly in front of Kovar as a left winger, Aaron's best hopes for significant playing time probably lie with converting to a left wingback in a 4-3-3. About a twenty percent of his pro minutes so far have come from the more defensive position.