2023 New Player Preview: Herbert Endeley
2023 New Player Preview: Herbert Endeley
In our first story series, we'll be introducing fans to the new players joining the squad for the 2023 season. Today's player: Herbert Endeley
Career
A week ago, FC Dallas signed Herbert Endeley to a one-year contract with club options for three additional years. Endeley was selected in the 2023 SuperDraft pick by FC Dallas with the 24th pick in the first round. Prior to signing with the club, Endeley went to college at Indiana University and played in 84 games over the span of four years for the Hoosiers. He helped lead the side to the College Cup final in 2022.
Position and Style
In college, Endeley played at both wing positions for Indiana, notching 13 goals and 20 assists over his collegiate career. His dribbling and speed were his best qualities in college.
When he came into preseason camp, it became quite clear that the coaching staff was putting Endeley in the Ema Twumasi path of transforming a college winger into a wing back. During preseason, he played almost exclusively right back, putting the club four players deep in that position (Endeley, Twumasi, Geovane Jesus, Collin Smith).
Role
Most college players are unable to become starters in their first seasons in MLS. The success rate on draft picks continues to shrink year after year. It’s already a great sign that FC Dallas signed Endeley to a first team contract instead of offering him a North Texas SC deal. The role Endeley fills on this team is one that is already pretty stuffed.
2023 Outlook
With the overcrowding at the right back position, the club has an important decision to make with the players in the position. The best scenario for Endeley is to become the starting right back at North Texas SC. Collin Smith spent an entire season at North Texas already, and so playing him in the second team would be redundant. Keeping Twumasi and Geovane with the first team, loaning out Smith, and having Endeley play at North Texas SC would be the best circumstance.
All that was mentioned above is a hypothetical scenario. Endeley’s outlook for the regular season depends entirely if he is able to play. If Smith continues with North Texas, Endeley will have a hard time finding minutes. If Smith goes out on loan, then Endeley will likely have a successful season.
