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Johnson called into USMNT camp; Busch says goodbye

Sean Johnson will replace D.C. United keeper Bill Hamid at the USMNT January camp, giving the Fire two players on the current national team. Conversely, Fire fandom feels sadness as Jon Busch says goodbye.

By Jeff Engelhardt
Sean Johnson gets another opportunity to impress with the national team.
Sean Johnson gets another opportunity to impress with the national team.
Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Fire now has two representatives on the U.S. Men’s National Team for the January camp.

Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson has been selected to replace injured D.C. United keeper Bill Hamid. It is not Johnson’s first time with the senior team, but it is another opportunity to try and crack the glass ceiling that has been the Tim Howard-Brad Guzan tandem with Nick Rimando as the safety blanket.

Johnson will need to outshine Luis Robles, the Red Bulls goalkeeper that had a fantastic 2015, and San Jose keeper David Bingham, who has been on the rise. It is sometimes hard to remember Johnson is still only 26, but he still has a hard road ahead to get a regular spot on the senior national team with hot prospects Evan Horvath and Zack Steffen already holding an inside track on the MLS veterans.

Whether Johnson or fellow USMNT and Fire teammate Matt Polster becomes a regular for the senior national team, it is exciting to see two Fire players on the USMNT squad. I cannot remember the last time the Fire had two active players simultaneously representing the U.S., so this is a moment that should be savored. It is also a glimmer of hope for a team that could use some optimism heading into 2016.

In sadder goalkeeping news, it appears the immensely popular Jon Busch is on his way out. The 39-year-old Tweeted this out yesterday:

At 39 years old, who knows what Busch’s next career move could entail. Whatever he decides to do next, I am sure he will carry the support of Fire fans with him. 

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