Scouting Report: David Estrada

As is our habit here at B&RU, when word broke that D.C. United had traded for the Seattle Sounders' David Estrada, we reached out to Dave Clark, manager of our sister site Sounder at Heart, for a read on our newest pickup from somebody who has watched him play up close. Here's what Dave had to say about the Morelia, Mexico native.

Offense: David is best when passing in tight spaces. His crossing is a lacking. When in front of goal he can be dangerous, as was best exhibited by his hat trick against TFC. Needs to be more aggressive with his off-ball runs. David has a good read of the game, but may need an extra touch to get the pass.

Defense: Has been developing into an attacking right back. He gets by mainly with mainly speed and effort. When at forward he is a great harrier who can cause poor passing by a backline. Estrada's positional awareness is strong. When that combines with effort other teams thoughts of attacking through his space will get short-circuited.

Positional Fits: He is best as a withdrawn forward considering his skillset, but can fill in as a right mid, left mid and right back. He's even been a CAM and a left back.

Extras: He's in the top 10% in effort, both in practices and in games at any level. That's handy to have around for the reserves and Academy kids. He's also a good leader, which may not make sense as he's a sub or reserve, but players respect him for his training. Most notably he is one of the best players Sounders FC have had in participating in charity events.

I'll miss David Estrada the man.