Atlanta United Final Exams: Chris McCann

Chris McCann

Position: Left-back, Left wing-back

Games Played: 24 appearances, 21 starts

Goals: 1

Interceptions: 32 (1.3 per game)

Chris McCann joined Atlanta United prior to their inaugural season and was one of the team’s veteran presences in their run to MLS Cup glory in just the second season of existence. The Irishman found himself deployed in numerous positions over the course of the season, particularly on the left-side of defense, and was used in a make-shift “do-it-all” role.

What went right: The 31-year old was thought to be depth heading into the season, but injuries as the campaign rolled on saw him thrown into different positions all over the field. Thankfully for Atlanta United, McCann managed to hold his own wherever Tata Martino selected him. While he didn’t excel in any one position, his versatility made him an asset for Atlanta all season.

What he needs to improve on: It wasn’t the best season of Chris McCann’s career, with plenty of ups and downs throughout the season. His lack of concentration failed him at times over the course of the season and culminated in errors in defense and in midfield. While he isn’t a natural fullback, he was trusted to fill in for injuries at left-back and it proved costly for Atlanta United on numerous occasions. Heading into 2019, McCann’s spot at left-back looks under threat and he’ll need to improve on his defensive work and concentration to hold down a place in Frank De Boer’s new look Atlanta United side.

Grade: C+