CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy locked down two vital pieces for the upcoming 2014 MLS regular season by announcing the re-signing of defender Todd Dunivant and the signing of midfielder Baggio Hušidić, but what impact will the pair have next year?
Dunivant has been the Galaxy’s “Mr. Consistency” for the past five years, by appearing in at least 25 matches each season. In 2013, Dunivant was again his reliable self as the left back made 25 appearances in league play while tallying two assists. During the team’s final media availability, the 32-year-old revealed that the deal will be keep him with the Galaxy for the next two seasons, where he should be able to continue serving as one of the team’s leaders on defense. That leadership could become pivotal as he mentors his deputy 23-year-old Greg Cochrane, who showcases the same type of workman-like play that has become a Dunivant staple. In his second year, Cochrane may make his own case for the left back position after a solid rookie season that saw him make 12 appearances, mostly filling in for Dunivant.
Hušidić is a more intriguing addition as he joins a potentially congested central midfield group for the Galaxy. The 26-year-old is coming off limited playing time with Hammarby as he made 41 appearances over two seasons with the Swedish Superettan club after a successful stint with the Chicago Fire. A tenacious midfielder displayed shades of developing into a two-way threat during his time with Chicago, but is likely to be used as a defensive option that will be expected to assist in the building of attacks. Where Hušidić fits in remains to be seen, however, as Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena would be required to drop either Marcelo Sarvas or Juninho to fit the former Hammarby player into his position in central midfield. Whichever player does start, however, will likely be the recipient of an uptick offensively as the Hušidić will be entrusted with the defensive responsibilities.
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