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Never one to shy away from controversy, Jermaine Jones just finished posting a lengthly statement on Instagram Live endorsing Eric Wynalda while reserving sharp words for his critics.
I don’t think we are going the right way with soccer in our country. We need a strong USSF president, someone who played the game & speaks out what hurts. After missing the WC it’s time to face it! We run our soccer like family business & that shows us we aren’t on the right path
— Jermaine Jones (@Jermainejunior) February 5, 2018
I don’t think we are going the right way with soccer in our country. We need a strong USSF president, someone who played the game & speaks out what hurts. After missing the WC it’s time to face it! We run our soccer like family business & that shows us we aren’t on the right path.
After vigorously advocating for Eric Wynalda and criticizing establishment candidates like Kathy Carter, the 36-year-old made a shocking claim. According to Jones, MLS Commissioner Don Garber told the midfielder a blind draw would be conducted but Jermaine would end up in New England, a bombshell accusation to say the least.
I have no idea how if Instagram Live posts are archived, but Jermaine Jones dropped some bombs. Said Don Garber told him there was going to be a blind draw but New England would win instead of Chicago.
— Grant Wahl (@GrantWahl) February 6, 2018
Interestingly enough, it appears Sebastian Lletget, a former teammate of Jones and central midfield competition on the USA, wasn’t too impressed with his words. This lends further credence to the credibility of recent reports which suggest there was considerable discord in the USMNT locker room over player selection. Of course, Jones has earned a reputation as a cancerous teammate himself, putting the credibility of his claim into question.
Doesn't look like @SLletget is entertained. pic.twitter.com/v54gDMr2fB
— Jason Davis, The ⚽ Maker (@davisjsn) February 6, 2018
Update: Wahl tried but was ultimately unable to hear from Garber himself on the matter. Additionally, others have begun to strongly push back against the accusations including New England President Brian Bilello.
Asked for a response from Don Garber to the accusation from Jones. Now told he "will politely decline the opportunity." https://t.co/IHrh4ify3t
— Grant Wahl (@GrantWahl) February 6, 2018
The draw was done via a video conference call. Multiple people were on the call (including me) and witnessed it.
— Brian Bilello (@RevsPrez) February 6, 2018
Thanks for setting the record straight, Brian. It's disappointing to see that any credence was given to this story. https://t.co/1Bsp8SAoPH
— Dan Courtemanche (@courtemancheMLS) February 6, 2018