Super Subs

    

     Strikers Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez and Edin Dzeko have received plenty of recognition in this year's Barclay's Premier League campaign.  The two super substitutes have helped their team sit 1-2 on top of the BPL table, not only this year, but last year as well. 

     Chicharito plays an important role in Manchester United, and their league leading 29 goals. Scoring three of his four league goals as a substitute, including scoring the winner against Chelsea, as well as adding two second half goals against Aston Villa to propel Man U to a 3-2 victory on November 10.

     Not to be outdone, Dzeko tallied a goal of his own in the 88th to lead City 2-1 over the Tottenham Hottspur, just a day later.
     Dzeko's role was recognized last year, as he kept City's hopes for the Premier League title alive with a goal in stoppage time against the Queens Park Rangers, minutes after entering the game. He's started right where he left off, scoring six of his seven goals off the bench (in all competitions). Edin's most memorable match came against West Bromwich, as he scored a goal after stepping on the pitch for less than two minutes. Stoppage time didn't stop Dzeko, as he added another goal to the sheet in the 92nd minute to seal the deal. 

     The acquisition of Striker, Robert Van Persie has not only decreased Hernandez's playing time, but the amount of times he's been called upon as a starter by Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson.  The new role doesn't seem to phase Chicharito and his professionalism, as he is blessed and wants to help the team as much as he can. 
     Dzeko is coping in a different way as he doesn't seem too pleased with the role as a "super sub", and believes he's proven that he deserves more playing time.  Manager, Roberto Mancini must feel that Dzeko gives them a better chance to win, off the bench.  No player likes sitting on the bench, but let's face it, the ball doesn't lie.  When you score all except for one goal off the bench, you can't start to second guess your role. 

     I've had the pleasure of seeing both players live this Summer in Chicago, in a friendly between Mexico and Bosnia & Herzegovina.  As a Bosnian, following the beautiful game, that has several names, is in my blood.  The atmosphere in Soldier Field on May 31st was astounding and something I honestly can not put into words.  The amount of passion each country shares for not only the game of soccer, but their best scorer in history, seems to be infinite.
      The amount of passion can easily be replaced with disappointment if the player isn't performing up to his abilities, so the way these two players carry the chip on their shoulder is remarkable.