Another Twist in the Jones Saga

When it was announced that Jermaine Jones would be taking advantage of a FIFA rule change in order to represent the USMNT, fans immediately began to anticipate the Schalke midfielder's debut. Months later, however, fans are still waiting to see Jones suit up in the red, white, and blue. A couple weeks ago, Jones looked on schedule to make a January return, leaving ample time to return to match fitness before the USMNT's friendly against the Netherlands on March 3. But recurring shin pain has caused yet another delay, and a deteriorating club situation is just compounding the issue.
Reportedly, Jones and Schalke manager Felix Magath are at odds over Jones' rehabilitation from multiple shin surgeries. Jones, who has already suffered multiple setbacks in his recovery efforts over the past couple months, wants to take a more cautious approach with additional rest so as to avoid another complication. Magath, meanwhile, is strongly backing Schalke's plan for recovery, which led to a war of words of sorts between the two, eventually culminating with Jones threatening to leave Schalke.

Jones' involvement in the 2010 World Cup is looking less and less likely each week. His ongoing rehab and recovery have not progressed well, and a falling out at Schalke could mean minimal playing time, potentially keeping Jones from quickly returning to his past form. Despite his pedigree and ability, it seems like a longshot at this rate that Jones will be in South Africa next summer. Another setback could mark the end of his already dwindling 2010 World Cup aspirations, and he will need to come on very strong in 2010 to convince Bob Bradley to take the chance and bring Jones into the fold so late in the cycle. If this falling out is beyond repair, the upcoming transfer window could very well mean a change of scenery for Jones, which would play a huge role in whether or not he is able to get back on track in the coming months.