The Denver Post is now reporting the Gibbs deal as done, so that's official enough for me. I think this is a solid move by the Rapids. Its not the reliable striker we really need up front unfortunately, but it does help solidify our defense. Currently we're 4th in offense and 10th in defense in the league, so going for a defender isn't a crazy idea. Our offensive starts are skewed by our two 4-0 wins, considering we haven't scored more than 2 in any other game, but it shows that we could use something to settle down our defense, mainly the Keystone Kops duo of Erpen and Ihemelu.Gibbs is high-risk, high-reward. He's been injured pretty much all of the last 2 years, and even off and on before then. If he can stay healthy he has the skills to be one of the best central defenders in MLS. hopefully the Rapids were smart enough to structure his contract with a low base salary and lots of incentives. If he stays healthy he'll be worth a high salary number, but if he doesn't I don't want to be on the hook to pay somebody to sit in the training room.
In other player news, Fox Soccer Channel reported during last week's game that Bouna Time! has been called up for Senegal's friendly against Libya in Tripoli on Aug 20th. I haven't found confirmation of it anywhere, but I wouldn't be surprised as I expect him to be the backup GK for their World Cup Qualifier on Sept. 5th. I know some of my fellow Rapids fans feel like Bouna shouldn't be let go for a friendly unless we're officially out of the playoff running, but I disagree. Bouna is going to be more likely to stay with the Rapids if we're willing to work with Confederation of African Football's (CAF) unusual schedule. Plus as Americans we are used to having our players in Coundoul's spot, since CONCACAF isn't aligned with Europe., With all the complaining we've done in the past it would be hypocritical of us to start demanding that Bouna stay here.
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