Reason number 714 to love Benny Olsen
05/14/2008 1:53 PM by Doug Hicks
Ben Olsen is a fan favorite among United supporters for an array of reasons. He has given everything he has to this club since before he could grow facial hair (ok, that may be stretching it a bit, but you get the point). Regardless, much has been made of Benny's recent battle to overcome ankle injuries and when he'll again contribute on the field. What people may not be aware of is how Benny continues to give to the team despite not being able to score goals, get into a tackle or provide on-field leadership during games.
Following United's loss against Chicago, Ben was in the locker room to greet players exiting the field. His message honest and simple: keep your heads up, we'll get through this. When the Black-and-Red returned to training this week, a hobbling Olsen was there, boots on and ready to go. While he can't run and play, he still knows that he can provide some intangibles while participating in training as best he can.
Yesterday, Benny saddled up with a group of reserve players, hitting crosses and explaining how to beat defenders with a driven, bending ball that also strands goalkeepers in their tracks. Today, he joined in training as a neutral player, knocking the ball around as he could all the while assisting and encouraging the efforts of others.
The rehab appointments continues and no, Benny is not at risk for further damage to his ailing ankle. While he's not close to making a return to action, it may never be more obvious the lengths he will go to to help his club. Yet another reason for United supporters to love Benny Olsen.
Comments
5 Comments
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05/14/2008 4:09 PM by Bill-DC
He will bust through a wall to win. I love his spirit, energy and determination. Even though he can't play, he does what he can to help the team. Got to love that. No wonder he's one of the most popular players in this club's history.
05/14/2008 6:50 PM by Jughead
God we miss you on the pitch Benny!!! This is why once again, Ben Olsen is the Man!!!
05/15/2008 9:06 AM by dogboy
Benny, since I first saw him on the field, has always been my favorite United player. Yes, he is not the most skilled player on the field, however his work rate is amazing.
His tenacity and his hustle is what has made him a fan favorite. His apparent love for the game is what has made him stand out on the field. These are the things that United misses right now.
To have what seemed like a career ending injury that caused him to lose out on playing in England to coming back and playing for the National team, is well deserved for a player like Benny.
We miss you and wish you a speedy recovery!
05/15/2008 11:50 AM by DCUMD
"He has given everything he has to this club since before he could grow facial hair"
This statement is inaccurate. You should know that Ben was born with facial hair.
We really miss him on the field, but it's great to read about how hard Benny is still working behind the scenes to get our team back into business. With his support on the sidelines, we might actually have a shot at scoring a goal or two on the road this weekend.
05/15/2008 11:51 AM by boda united
Coach Olsen? I think you'd be hard pressed to find someone the players would respect more...and he's not shy about voicing his opinions......it truly makes sense.