Bruce Arena: DeJuan Jones looks more comfortable at left back

DeJuan Jones always seems to be out of place when it comes to his positioning on the field.

Now that’s not to say that the defender is caught out of position. The reality is that a right-footed left back will always stick out like a sore thumb.

But lately, Jones has been playing on the right side of the pitch as Brandon Bye has been sidelined with an ankle sprain. This has given Christian Mafla the opportunity to gain match fitness and play at left back.

While one might think that it would be a seamless transition for the former Michigan State man, that hasn’t exactly been the case. While Jones has held his own, he hasn’t performed as well at right back compared to his output on the left flank.

When speaking to the media on Wednesday, Bruce Arena said that while Jones has done okay, it’s clear to see where he is more comfortable.

“He looks like he’s more comfortable as a left back, oddly enough,” said the Head Coach. “He’s done a good job in replacing Brandon over these last couple of weeks. But again, oddly enough, we feel that he’s more comfortable playing in the left back position.”

Still this has been one of the best seasons of Jones’ career. He has started 20 games and has racked up two goals and four assists. Jones has improved his left foot greatly and he has been great at distributing the ball.

With Bye continuing to rehab his ankle while participating in team training there is a chance that Jones returns to his more familiar left back, but with how he has played this season, Revolution fans won’t care where he is on the field when they face the Union on Friday night.