Four Questions: Alex Calabrese of MenInRed97

We caught up with Alex Calabrese of MenInRed97 again to see what’s been happening with the Chicago Fire since they came to Chester a month ago. My answers to Alex’s questions are on the MenInRed97 website.

A. Over the last four games, the Fire have had some highs and lows, but the main thing has been that the attack has been clicking. Surprisingly, the front four has looked better without Xherdan Shaqiri, who was injured against the Union last time, with Brian Gutiérrez stepping up with three assists from the #10 position, and the team has picked up two wins, with Chris Mueller scoring twice and Kei Kamara scoring thrice. The defense – particularly goalkeeper Chris Brady and center backs Rafa Czichos and Carlos Terán – have been very solid.

A. As mentioned, the attack has looked much better without Shaqiri in the middle, though he may be returning this weekend. The addition of Kamara has also significantly improved the attack, since Kacper Przybyłko simply hasn’t been producing at all. The Fire have struggled mightily in midfield with Fede Navarro out injured all season so far, which has been one of the reasons the Fire have shipped quite a few goals; he returned to training this week.

A. There is certainly an element of literal home-field advantage, similar to what the Bears have traditionally enjoyed over the years. Soldier Field is considered one of the worst turfs in the NFL, so that applies to the Fire too, and it is also the second narrowest field in MLS. The home supporters also play a role; while the numbers may be small, they are very loud.

The only confirmed player out for Chicago is Victor Bezerra, who likely wouldn’t have played anyway. The aforementioned Shaqiri and Navarro, as well as DP Jairo Torres, will all likely be available after returning to training this week from long injury layoffs. Most likely, the team will lineup in the usual 4-2-3-1, with Chris Brady, Miguel Ángel Navarro, Rafa Czichos, Carlos Terán, Arnaud Souquet, Fede Navarro, Gastón Giménez, Chris Mueller, Brian Gutiérrez, Xherdan Shaqiri, and Kei Kamara making up the XI. I do think the Fire will win this one, I’ll say 1-0.