CARSON, Calif – Marcelo Sarvas has been coming into his own over the last few weeks and against Tottenham Hotspur, the Brazilian midfielder showcased just how far he’s come.
Without the likes of David Beckham and Juninho patrolling the midfield, Sarvas took command and delivered a solid 45 minute performance against Tottenham. Confidently matching up with the experienced Tottenham midfield, Sarvas led the Galaxy attack during the first half and even provided the final pass that led to David Junior Lopes’ goal in the 29th minute.
Following his stellar performance, Tottenham head coach Andre Villa-Boas took notice of the Galaxy’s Brazilian midfielder.
“We suffered a lot in the first half by letting them play. They were pretty creative and Marcelo [Sarvas] in particular was extremely influential in creating problems for us,” said Villas-Boas. “I don’t have full knowledge of the extent of LA Galaxy, but I was pretty impressed with what we saw.”
After the match, Sarvas was honored by the compliment from the Spurs' head coach.
“It’s a pleasure for me. Someone in his position in football and understands about football [to compliment me],” Sarvas told reporters after the match. For me it’s a pleasure for someone to recognize what you’re doing so it’s very important for me.”
Sarvas’ performance against Tottenham comes after a string of solid performances in league play. After seeing scant playing time at the start of the season following his move from Costa Rican club Alajuelense, Sarvas has made five straight starts for the Galaxy—going 90 minutes in four of the matches.
Although Sarvas’ MLS career started slowly, the Brazilian believes that he is adapting to MLS.
“Every player needs time for adaptation,” Sarvas admits. “Some players take one week and some take two months, but I think my time is coming. I’m doing my best on the field so good things are coming.”
But Sarvas admits that his best form is still on the horizon.
“You never know when you’re playing your best,” said Sarvas. “Every game and every training session, you try to do more and more so I’m going in a good direction.”
Adam Serrano is the LA Galaxy Insider. Read his blog at LAGalaxy.com/insider
