Freddy Adu: He's here with RSL — and he's legit

Freddy Adu's presence is an absolute coup for Real Salt Lake's marketing staff. But what about his abilities on the field? Is he really that good, or has hype far surpassed the 17-year-old's potential as he heads into his fourth MLS season?

It hasn't taken Adu long to convince his new teammates that he's legit.

"He's very good. I think he's going to be making a difference for us this year," said Real striker Jeff Cunningham. "He has good technique, good vision. Anytime you have a player that helps make you look better on the pitch is always a good addition."

Adu joined Major League Soccer at age 14 and almost overnight became perhaps the most recognizable soccer player in the United States. Success was sporadic during his first three years at D.C. United. There were moments when he'd do something with the ball that underscored why he turned pro so young, but there were also games when he didn't even leave the bench.

It was Adu's potential brilliance that led Real Salt Lake to complete a trade with D.C. United back in December.

During his introductory press conference at the Grand America Hotel the following day, much of the talk revolved around the reunion of Adu and his former youth national team coach, John Ellinger. More specifically, they talked about Adu's return to the middle of the field.

At D.C. United, Adu was stuck behind Christian Gomez on the depth chart at attacking midfield, therefore he spent most of his time out of position at left midfield.

Ironically enough, that appears to be happening again with his new club.

"The initial plan was to stick him in the middle, but as the preseason goes on he seemed to be more valuable playing on the left," said Ellinger, who admits that Adu was a little hesitant with the change at first. "I try and use the analogy that 'if it's good enough for Ronaldinho, it's good enough for you."'

The adjustment has more to do with Mehdi Ballouchy's emergence than any shortcomings by Adu. Plus, Ellinger believes that the switch may ultimately help Adu reach his loftier goals.

"It's no secret he wants to go to Europe, but I think he needs to play consistent for a couple of years to attract that type of attention abroad," said Ellinger.

There's no reason he can't develop that consistency in Salt Lake City. Many of RSL's veteran players have taken the teenager under their wings this year, and it's definitely helped him acclimate quickly to his new surroundings.