DC United added an exceptional left back to their ranks with the recent addition of Taylor Kemp. Drafted 17th overall, Kemp will join the ranks of a very solid DC United back line. Although Kemp seems to be ready to take on the next step into MLS, he will have to improve both his speed and his 1v1 defending if he is to find himself in Ben Olsen's starting XI. Ahead of the Maryland Terp is Daniel Woolard and Chris Korb who are both seasoned DC United players ready to compete for the starting defense duties.
Kemp is a four-year Maryland starter at the left back position, and unfortunately suffered a set back his senior season. During this past year, he only featured in 12 matches (due to injury) for the Terp's amassing 6 assists. As Ben Olsen is a real tough coach and expects a lot of effort out of his players, Kemp must come into training camp with willingness to learn and improve from the get-go.
Although Taylor Kemp is a solid left back, Olsen must take into account his presence going forward. Much like Andy Najar, Kemp likes to go forward which would work well with the younger legs of Nick DeLeon and Perry Kitchen in the midfield; however, may be detrimental to his defensive philosophy. In his rookie season if Kemp is to succeed, he must first focus on his defensive duties and maintain a series of positive performances which may be hard because of him being prone to injury.
(image courtesy of realcolorado.net)
