Charlie Davies was in serious but stable condition after several hours of surgery following a deadly car accident that claimed the life of 22 year old Ashley J Roberta.
Although the injuries suffered by Davies were not life threatening they were serious enough that his playing career could be threatened. Details are sketchy at this point and we don’t know the extent of bony and ligamentous damage that he might have sustained.
We are very glad that Davies survived the crash which seemed to have occurred with such force that it split the SUV he was traveling in into two. But this news is tragic for one of the brightest soccer prospects to play for the US team in years. For Team USA, this is one tough break.
Davies burst on the scene this summer in the Confederations Cup where his blistering speed and combination with Landon Donovan sparked the US into serious contention for the title. Bradley’s World Cup striker tandem was pretty much nailed down with Davies proving to be the adventurous and more mobile counterfoil to the physically stronger and taller Jozy Altidore, willing to operate on the wings and switch positions with Donovan, giving the attack a multi-dimensional and fluid look. His one two with Donovan against Brazil in the Confederation Cup final still stands out.
In Davies absence and there is no knowing when he will be able to come back onto the pitch if at all, Bob Bradley will have to re-consider his options and play the more experienced Brian Ching or Conor Casey who scored two goals in the victory over Honduras. Frankly, they lack Davies zest.
The accident took place late at night and it appeared Davies violated his curfew. According to the police he was not driving and was one of two passengers. The US team plays the Ticos tomorrow at RFK stadium in an otherwise inconsequential match.
“As a team, we were saddened to learn this news,” Bradley said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Charlie and Charlie’s family as well as the others involved. … It hit us all hard.”
We wish him a speedy recovery and here is praying that Davies once again dons his boots and resumes his promising career. Condolences to Ashley J Roberta’s family. May she rest in peace.