Matt Polster | Midfielder | Chicago Fire | Age: 22
Last Year in 24 Under 24: n/a
2015 Stats: Matches played: 26 - Goals: 0 - Assists: 0
Matt Polsterfull bio and stats
Matt Polster got one of the fastest persistent infringement yellow cards of anybody in MLS history, getting one just four minutes into his first start with the Fire. So, you know, he's not afraid of going into a tackle.
But what makes Polster a special talent is his vision and passing ability, and his willingness to use them to open up opposing defenses. He doesn't hit the final ball very often, but he's mature beyond his years in terms of spreading the field out and putting his attackers into good spots.
That's an essential skillset for any modern No. 6, and while Polster's played some as a No. 8 and a bit (too much) as a right back, it's defensive midfield where he'll make his long-term home. The more Chicago play him there, the better off they'll be in both the short- and long-term.
What the technical staffers say: "The combination of his athleticism, his technical ability and his versatility – he manages to survive out of competitive will no matter where he plays and who he plays against. I'm not sure I saw that until we played him, and then it was, 'Yeah, there's something there.'
"The question will be what happens in Year 2. [Wil] Trapp got better, and Polster will have to get better, too."
What Opta Sports says: Matt Polster ranks second among eligible players with 198 recoveries in MLS play in 2015. He ranks fifth among these players with 52.6 passes attempted per 90 minutes.
Find your colors. Shop mlsstore.com for Matt Polster jerseys and Chicago Fire gear - including hats, scarves, and jackets.
- READ: Versatile Polster says he'll play "any position", but #6 is his best
- WATCH: Polster talks after his emotional draft day
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