Dynamo midfielder Eric Alexander makes case for starting spot

Recommended Video:

While the Dynamo's attacking players are getting their rightful due for their success in Saturday's season opening victory, Eric Alexander's successful performance is being overlooked.

The veteran midfielder started in place of the suspended Juan David Cabezas at the No. 6 position and excelled in every category in which he was asked to contribute.

Alexander led all Dynamo starters by completing 91.9 percent of his passes. His 37 passes were the most on the team.

"No one has mentioned anything about Eric," Dynamo coach Wilmer Cabrera said. "When a player in the central midfield is not mentioned in any circumstances it is because he is doing a very good job."

Alexander, acquired in a summer trade last season, had been playing with the second group throughout preseason. He stepped in seamlessly against Seattle Sounders FC and fared well while often contending with the U.S. National Team's No. 2 all-time leading scorer Clint Dempsey.

Alexander's role was two-fold. He had to both possess the ball and keep it moving forward. By doing that he helped the team maintain balance and regain its shape if it got stretched by Seattle's attack.

Cabrera said Alexander's technique was outstanding moving the ball to both sides of the pitch. He did all of that despite the fact he was out there with players he had not played with extensively.

"It is a new group for everybody," Alexander said. "We all train together. We haven't played a lot of games. The chemistry is pretty new for everyone."

Seattle Sounders midfielder Osvaldo Alonso, right, drives against Houston Dynamo's Eric Alexander during the first half of an MLS soccer match, Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) Seattle Sounders midfielder Osvaldo Alonso, right, drives against Houston Dynamo's Eric Alexander during the first half of an MLS soccer match, Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) Photo: Ted S. Warren, Associated Press Photo: Ted S. Warren, Associated Press Image 1 of / 56 Caption Close Dynamo midfielder Eric Alexander makes case for starting spot 1 / 56 Back to Gallery

Whether Alexander starts again Saturday against Columbus Crew SC remains to be seen. It makes sense, however, that Cabrera would pick Cabezas for the starting XI.

The Dynamo in December acquired Cabezas on loan from Colombian club Deportivo Cali with the intent of making him a critical player in the defensive midfield because of his ball-winning capabilities.

That would give Houston a different look than it had against Seattle because Alexander is heavier on possession than he is on hunting the ball.

"Juan David is a different one," Cabrera said. "Now he is going to be available, but we'll see. His characteristics are that he is more aggressive in winning the ball. He can pass the ball well, but those two are different. Right now, it is very good to have those two guys in that position fighting for that spot."